Crime Prevention – White Plains Public Safety

Reducing the Risk of Sexual Assault: Personal Safety Strategies for Everyday Situations

admin — Thu, 28 May 2026 18:32:06 +0000

Reducing the Risk of Sexual Assault: Personal Safety Strategies for Everyday Situations

Sexual assault can happen to anyone regardless of age, gender, lifestyle, or location. Responsibility for sexual assault always lies with the offender — never the victim. However, there are proactive personal safety strategies that may help reduce risk, improve awareness, and assist individuals in recognizing potentially dangerous situations before they escalate.

Many sexual assaults are committed by someone known to the victim, and situations that initially appear harmless can quickly become unsafe. Personal safety begins with awareness, confidence, preparation, and trusting your instincts.

General Personal Safety Strategies

Trust Your Instincts

If a person or situation makes you uncomfortable, take those feelings seriously. Leaving an uncomfortable situation early is always acceptable. If you later realize there was no danger, you can explain afterward — but your personal safety should always come first.

Communicate Boundaries Clearly

If someone crosses personal boundaries or makes you uncomfortable, communicate firmly and directly. Clear communication can help prevent misunderstandings and reinforce personal limits. Consent must always be active, mutual, and respected.

Stay Alert and Aware

Remain aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions when possible. Excessive alcohol or drug use can impair judgment and awareness, making it more difficult to recognize potentially dangerous situations.

Be Confident and Assertive

Confident body language and assertive communication can discourage predatory behavior. Walk confidently, maintain awareness, and do not hesitate to seek help or draw attention to yourself if you feel threatened.

At Home Safety Tips

Your home should be a place of security and comfort. Taking preventative measures can help improve safety and reduce vulnerability.

Secure Your Home

Keep entrances and windows locked, even while home during the day.
Ensure entryways, stairwells, parking areas, and walkways are well lit.
Consider using peepholes, deadbolts, chain locks, security cameras, or video doorbells.
Avoid hiding spare keys in obvious locations such as under mats or flowerpots.

Be Cautious With Visitors

Verify the identity of delivery personnel, contractors, or service workers before allowing them inside.
Ask for identification if necessary.
Avoid publicly sharing your location or travel plans on social media in real time.

Stay Connected

Inform trusted friends or family members when expecting unfamiliar visitors or meeting someone new.
Keep emergency contact numbers easily accessible.

Safety Tips While Walking

Whether walking during the day or at night, awareness and preparation are important.

Stay in Visible Areas

Walk in well-lit, populated locations whenever possible.
Avoid isolated shortcuts, alleys, vacant lots, or heavily concealed areas.

Walk facing traffic when possible and remain alert to nearby vehicles or individuals.

Reduce Distractions

Limit phone use and avoid wearing headphones at high volume while walking alone.
Stay aware of your surroundings and the people around you.

If You Feel Unsafe

Change direction or enter a populated business or public place.
If you believe someone may be following you, call 911 or seek immediate assistance.
Do not be afraid to attract attention by yelling, using a whistle, or seeking help from others nearby.

Safety Tips While Driving

Drivers can also reduce risk by remaining alert and prepared.

Before Entering Your Vehicle

Have your keys ready before approaching your vehicle.
Check the interior and back seat area before entering.
Park in well-lit, busy areas whenever possible.

While Driving

Keep doors locked and remain alert at intersections, parking lots, and garages.
Avoid distracted driving or sitting in parked vehicles while focused on your phone.
If you think another vehicle may be following you, do not drive home. Instead, drive to a police station, busy public area, or call 911.

Rideshare Safety

Confirm rideshare vehicle information and driver identity before entering.
Sit in the back seat whenever possible.
Share trip information with a trusted friend or family member.

Looking Out for Others

Everyone plays a role in community safety. If you observe someone who appears vulnerable, isolated, or uncomfortable, safely check on them or notify authorities when appropriate. Bystander awareness and intervention can help prevent dangerous situations before they escalate.

If You Need Help

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, confidential support is available.

The National Sexual Assault Hotline operated by RAINN is available 24 hours a day:

Call: 800-656-HOPE (4673)
Visit: RAINN.org

No one ever deserves to be sexually assaulted. Prevention efforts must continue to focus on education, awareness, accountability for offenders, and creating safer communities for everyone.

Protecting Your Deliveries: Effective Tips to Prevent Package Thefts

admin — Sun, 26 Nov 2023 17:00:51 +0000

As online shopping continues to grow in popularity, package thefts, also known as porch piracy, have unfortunately become a prevalent issue affecting countless homeowners. The sight of an empty doorstep where a prized package was supposed to be delivered can be both frustrating and disheartening. However, by understanding the tactics employed by porch pirates and implementing preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to these thefts. Read on to discover effective tips to safeguard your deliveries.

Track and Schedule Deliveries: Utilize tracking services provided by shipping carriers. Stay updated on the estimated delivery time of your packages and plan accordingly. When possible, schedule deliveries for times when you or a trusted neighbor will be home to receive them.
Choose Secure Delivery Options: Many shipping carriers offer flexible delivery options, such as requiring a signature upon delivery or providing secure lockers. Select these options whenever available to ensure your packages are placed in safe hands or stored securely until you can retrieve them.
Opt for In-Store Pickups: Consider selecting the “pick up in-store” option during the checkout process. This allows you to collect your package directly from a local retail location instead of having it delivered to your doorstep. Not only does this eliminate the risk of porch theft, but it also provides the convenience of picking up your item at your own convenience.
Install Security Cameras: Investing in a home security camera system can act as a deterrent to potential package thieves. Install cameras in visible locations near your front door and ensure they cover the area where packages are typically delivered. The presence of cameras can discourage thieves and provide valuable evidence in case of any attempted thefts.
Request Discreet Packaging: Some retailers offer discreet packaging options that do not reveal the contents of the package. By requesting such packaging, you minimize the risk of attracting the attention of potential thieves who may be enticed by the sight of valuable items.
Use Package Receiving Services: If you frequently receive packages, consider utilizing package receiving services offered by certain companies or businesses. These services allow you to have your deliveries sent to a secure location, such as a local store or a dedicated package receiving facility, where you can pick them up at your convenience.
Coordinate with Neighbors: Establish a mutual understanding with your neighbors to assist one another in receiving packages when someone is away. Inform trusted neighbors about your expected deliveries and ask them to keep an eye out for any packages left unattended on your doorstep. This collaborative effort can help deter porch pirates and ensure the safe receipt of your packages.
Require Signature on Delivery: Whenever possible, request that your packages require a signature upon delivery. This ensures that someone is present to accept the package and reduces the chances of it being left unattended on your doorstep.
Consider Package Theft Prevention Devices: Several innovative gadgets are available in the market designed specifically to thwart package thefts. These devices range from lockable secure delivery boxes to doorbell cameras with built-in package delivery alerts. Explore these options and choose the one that best fits your specific needs and budget.
Report Suspicious Activity: Maintaining a vigilant community is key to preventing package thefts. If you notice any suspicious individuals loitering around your neighborhood or behaving strangely near your doorstep, report it to local authorities immediately. Sharing information about potential thieves can help law enforcement take necessary action to prevent future thefts.

Remember, preventing package theft requires a proactive approach. By incorporating these preventive measures into your routine, you can significantly reduce the chances of falling victim to porch piracy. Stay informed, secure your deliveries, and create a strong network of support within your community to deter package thieves. Together, we can make our neighborhoods safer and protect our valuable deliveries.

Additionally, it is crucial to stay informed about local package theft trends and share this knowledge with family, friends, and neighbors. Local law enforcement agencies often provide tips and resources on their websites or through community outreach programs. By staying updated and spreading awareness, we can collectively combat package theft and ensure the security of our deliveries.

In conclusion, porch piracy is an unfortunate reality of our online shopping culture, but practical steps can be taken to minimize the risk. By tracking deliveries, choosing secure options, installing security cameras, coordinating with neighbors, and reporting suspicious activity, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of falling victim to package theft. Stay vigilant, be proactive, and protect your valuable shipments from porch pirates. Together, we can preserve the joy of receiving packages at our doorsteps without worry.

Home Improvement Scams on the Rise

admin — Fri, 24 Nov 2023 15:45:32 +0000

The booming housing market has led to a surge in the home improvement industry, but unfortunately, it has also attracted a wave of unscrupulous scammers. Homeowners must remain vigilant to protect themselves from falling victim to these fraudulent schemes. Understanding the common scams and acquiring knowledge on how to avoid them is crucial in safeguarding your home and finances.

One prevalent scam involves fly-by-night contractors, who frequently target vulnerable homeowners in need of urgent repairs. These contractors may knock on your door offering immediate services at unbelievably low prices. Beware of high-pressure tactics and overly enticing promises. It is essential to conduct thorough research on a contractor’s credibility, including checking for past customer reviews and requesting at least three detailed quotes before making any decisions.

Another scam to be aware of is the upfront payment scheme. Scammers posing as reputable contractors may demand a significant portion or the full payment upfront, claiming it is necessary for purchasing materials. Once they have the money in hand, they disappear, leaving the homeowner with unfinished or shoddy work. To protect yourself, avoid making full payments before the project’s completion. Instead, negotiate a payment schedule that aligns with project milestones and ensures satisfactory progress.

Additionally, be cautious of door-to-door solicitors offering special deals or discounts. Genuine contractors typically rely on word-of-mouth recommendations or trusted advertising channels, rather than resorting to unsolicited visits. If approached by someone claiming to be a contractor, always ask for identification, proof of licensing, and references. Take the time to verify their information and research their credentials before proceeding.

To avoid becoming a victim of home improvement scams, consider the following precautionary measures:

Research and verify: Conduct thorough research on any contractor before hiring them. Check their licenses, certifications, and reviews from previous clients. Utilize trusted online platforms and websites that provide reliable information and customer feedback.
Get multiple estimates: Obtain detailed quotes from at least three different contractors. This will not only help you compare prices but also provide a clearer understanding of each contractor’s proposed approach and scope of work. Be wary of quotes that seem significantly lower or higher than the average, as they could be a red flag for potential scams.
Get everything in writing: Ensure that all agreements, contracts, and terms are put in writing. This includes a detailed description of the project, timelines, materials to be used, payment terms, and any warranties offered. Review and understand the terms thoroughly before signing any documents.
Ask for references: Request references from the contractor and make the effort to follow up with past clients. Speaking directly to previous customers can provide valuable insights into the contractor’s reliability, work quality, and professionalism.
Don’t rush into decisions: Take your time when making a decision. Scammers often use high-pressure tactics, claiming the offer is time-limited or that immediate action is necessary. Legitimate contractors will understand the need for careful consideration and will be patient during the decision-making process.
Report suspicious activity: If you encounter a potential scammer or fraudulent contractor, report the incident to your local authorities and consumer protection agencies. By doing so, you can help protect others from falling victim to the same scam.

By staying informed and following these preventive measures, homeowners can reduce the risk of falling victim to home improvement scams. Additionally, consider seeking recommendations from trusted friends, family members, or neighbors who have recently completed successful home improvement projects. These personal referrals can provide an extra layer of assurance when selecting a contractor.

It’s also important to note that legitimate contractors will typically have insurance coverage. Request proof of insurance from any contractor you are considering hiring. This will protect you from any liability in case of accidents or damages that may occur during the project.

Furthermore, be cautious of contractors who insist on cash payments or require payment in full before the work is completed. Reputable contractors will typically accept different forms of payment, including checks or credit cards, and will have clear payment terms aligned with project milestones.

In summary, home improvement scams are on the rise, and homeowners must remain vigilant to protect themselves from falling victim to these fraudulent schemes. By conducting thorough research, getting multiple estimates, and obtaining written agreements, homeowners can reduce the likelihood of becoming targets. Remember to trust your instincts and be wary of any contractor who exerts high-pressure tactics or refuses to provide references. By taking these precautionary measures and reporting suspicious activity, homeowners can safeguard their homes, finances, and peace of mind.

Summer Crime Prevention Tips

admin — Mon, 05 Jun 2023 12:00:18 +0000

Theft is a crime of opportunity. During the summer months would-be thieves are on the look-out for items which can be easily taken in moments. Unlocked doors, open windows, and open garage doors all provide a temptation to steal valuables — bikes, packages, cell phones, purses — left in plain view. Blooming trees and overgrown shrubs can provide would-be
burglars with places to hide.

Here are a few tips to make your summer a safe one:

Home Safety Tips

Install lighting, such as motion lights or dusk to dawn detector lights, on your home’s exterior.
Trim shrubbery around your home to eliminate hiding places.
Your address should be clearly visible from the street for emergency and identification
purposes.
Close and lock your garage door when you are not nearby. Place valuables stored in the
garage in a locking device not visible from the street when the garage door is open.
Do not leave bikes unattended. Lock your bikes, even if you are going to be away for only a few moments.
If you sleep on the second floor of your home, keep all first floor doors and windows closed and locked.

Vehicle Safety Tips

Always lock your doors and roll up your windows when you leave your car. Make sure to take your keys with you.
Do not leave valuables in the car. If you must leave possessions in your vehicle keep them out of sight or hidden in the trunk.
Before you get into your car, check the backseat and around the car. Lock your doors once inside the car.

Vacation Tips

If you are going out of town, you can notify the Police Department and set up a vacant house watch.
Make sure your home is locked up and secure.
Stop your mail or have family/friends retrieve it for you.
Set a light on a timer inside of your home to create the appearance of activity inside.
Exterior motion sensor lighting can aide in deterring crime.
Keep valuables away from public view through a window etc.
Do not discuss vacation plans in public or on social media.

Mail Theft & Check Fraud Awareness

admin — Mon, 12 Dec 2022 17:42:50 +0000

Our Department is investigating recent check fraud reports and would like to offer the following information to our residents:

Checks that are mailed out from various US Postal & personal mailboxes can be collected by thieves and altered.

How?

Thieves steal mail from personal mailboxes
Thieves obtain US Postal Mailbox keys
Thieves place sticky substances inside US Postal mailbox slots and wait for individuals to place mail in the mailbox. After an individual places their mail in the mailbox, thieves then come collect the mail that is now attached to the sticky substance. Using chemicals, they wash away ink on check(s), alter the check amount and payee causing financial loss.

Ways to protect yourself from check fraud include:

Collecting your mail frequently. Try to avoid leaving mail in mailbox overnight
Examine US Mailboxes before placing mail into mailbox
If feasible, mail out mail from a post office or pay bills online
Install security cameras outside home

If you believe a mailbox has been tampered with or you have been a victim of check fraud, contact the City of White Plains Police Department.

Road Rage: How to Avoid Aggressive Driving

admin — Wed, 23 Nov 2022 15:01:54 +0000

Aggressive driving is a major concern of the American public and a real threat to the safety of all road users. In a survey conducted by the AAA Foundation, nearly 9 in 10 respondents said they believed aggressive drivers were a “somewhat” or “very serious” threat to their personal safety.

This same survey found that a substantial number of drivers admitted to engaging in potentially aggressive behaviors, such as traveling more than 15 mph above the speed limit, or running a red light.

Any unsafe driving behavior, performed deliberately and with ill intention or disregard for safety, can constitute aggressive driving. In fact, a Foundation study found that potentially aggressive actions such as tailgating, erratic lane changing, or illegal passing are a factor in up to 56% of fatal crashes. In extreme cases, this may escalate to road rage, which is a violent criminal act involving an intention to cause physical harm. A separate AAA Foundation study looked at more than 10,000 road rage incidents committed over seven years, and found they resulted in at least 218 murders and another 12,610 injury cases. When drivers explained why they became violent, the reasons were often trivial: “She wouldn’t let me pass,” “They kept tailgating me,” or, as this driver accused of attempted murder explained, “He practically ran me off the road – what was I supposed to do?”

How can you avoid being the victim of an aggressive driver?

Here are three basic guiding principles that can help:

1. Don't Offend

When surveys ask drivers what angers them most, the results are remarkably consistent. A few specific behaviors seem unusually likely to enrage other drivers. You can protect yourself by avoiding them:

*Cutting Off

When you merge, make sure you have plenty of room. Use your turn signal to show your intentions before making a move. If you make a mistake and accidentally cut someone off, try to apologize to the other driver with an appropriate gesture. If someone cuts you off, slow down and give them room to merge into your lane

*Driving slowly in the left lane

If you are in the left lane and someone wants to pass, move over and let them by. You may be “in the right” because you are traveling at the speed limit – but you may also be putting yourself in danger by making drivers behind you angry. In many states and provinces the law requires you to travel in the right lane and use the far left lane only for passing. Besides, it’s simple courtesy to move over and let other drivers by

*Tailgating.

Drivers get angry when they are followed too closely. Allow at least a two-second space between your car and the car ahead. [When you see the car pass a fixed point, you should be able to count at least “one thousand, two-thousand” before you pass that point.]

If you think another car is driving too slowly and you are unable to pass, pull back and allow more space, not less. That way if the car does something unexpected you will have time to get out of the way.

You should be able to see the headlights of the car behind you in your rear-view mirror. If you feel you are being followed too closely, signal and pull over to allow the other driver to go by.

2. Don't Engage

One angry driver can’t start a fight unless another driver is willing to join in. You can protect yourself against aggressive drivers by refusing to become angry at them. Orator Robert Ingersoll said, “Anger blows out the lamp of the mind.” When angry, a person can do things they may later regret. If you’re tempted to retaliate against another driver, think: “Would I want to fly in an airplane whose pilot was acting like this?” Think about what kind of a crash your angry actions could cause. Then cool down and continue your trip.

*Steer Clear

Give angry drivers lots of room. A driver you may have offended can “snap” and become truly dangerous. If the other driver tries to pick a fight, put as much distance as possible between your vehicle and the other car, and then get away as quickly as possible. Do not under any circumstances pull off to the side of the road and try to settle things “man to man.”

*Avoid Eye Contact

If another driver is acting angry with you, don’t make eye contact. Looking or staring at another driver can turn an impersonal encounter between two vehicles into a personal duel. And once things get personal, the situation can get out of hand fast.

*Get Help

If you believe the other driver is following you or is trying to start a fight, get help. If you have a cell phone, use it to call the police. Otherwise, drive to a place where there are people around, such as a police station, convenience store, shopping center, or even a hospital. Use your horn to get someone’s attention. This will usually discourage an aggressor. Do not get out of your car. Do not go home.

3. Adjust your attitude

The most important actions you can take to avoid aggressive driving take place inside your head. By changing your approach to driving, you can make every trip more pleasant. Try these ideas for a pleasant change:

*Forget Winning

For too many motorists, driving becomes a contest. Do you allow the shortest possible time for a trip and then race the clock? If something happens to slow you down do you get angry? The solution: Allow more time for your trip. You’ll be amazed at how much more relaxed you feel when you have a few extra minutes. So instead of trying to “make good time,” try to “make time good.” Listen to soothing music or a book on tape. Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing. You’ll arrive much calmer, fresher, and in a less stressed-out frame of mind.

*Put yourself in the other driver's shoes

Instead of judging the other driver, try to imagine why he or she is driving that way. Someone speeding and constantly changing lanes may be a volunteer fireman, or a physician rushing to a hospital. Someone who jerks from one lane to another may have a bee in the car or a crying baby. Whatever their reason, it has nothing to do with you. Stay cool and don’t take other drivers’ actions personally.

*If you think you have a problem, ask for help

Courses in anger management have been shown to reduce heart attacks. These same techniques can also help angry drivers. Drivers who successfully “reinvent” their approach to the road report dramatic changes in attitude and behavior. Look for anger management
courses in your area. Self-help books on stress reduction and anger management can also be helpful.

Information provided by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety

Holiday Safety & Crime Prevention

admin — Tue, 22 Nov 2022 12:00:11 +0000

The holidays are a time to reconnect with family and friends, but they also can present seasonal safety hazards. Here are some tips that we have collected from several sources to help you keep your home safe this holiday season.

Holiday Decorating Tips

Hospital emergency rooms treat thousands of people annually who are injured from falls involving holiday decorations. Half of those injuries are associated with falls, and some could involve extension cords. Here are some tips to make your holiday decorating safer:

Never use furniture as a ladder.
Follow the 1-to-4 rule for extension ladders: for every four feet the ladder rises, move the base out one foot from the structure.
Always keep three points of contact on the ladder: two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand.
Inspect the ladder for any damage prior to using it.
Use the right ladder for the task at hand.

Trees and Decorations

As you deck the halls this holiday season, be fire smart. A small fire that spreads to a Christmas tree can grow large very quickly.

Live trees should be kept well-watered to prevent them from drying out, and should be placed at least 3 feet from any heat source.
Trees should be removed soon after Christmas, or when they become dried out — 40 percent of Christmas tree fires occur in January, when the holidays are over.
Don’t overload electrical outlets. Choose artificial trees and decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant, and don’t connect more than three strands of lights together.
Check all cords and light strings to make sure they’re not worn or frayed and make sure outdoor lights are designed for that purpose. Unplug all electric decorations before going to bed. Use only UL approved extension cords and power strips.
Candles should never be left burning in a room unattended, and should not be placed directly on a table, counter or other surface — they should be on a plate, a Menorah or a candlestick or candelabra designed for that purpose and should be kept at least 12 inches from curtains or other things that can burn.

Cooking & Dining

Just a few simple tips to keep the kitchen safer during the holidays include:

Always have a cook in the kitchen.
Don’t leave stove burners or the oven unattended.
Occupy the kids away from the kitchen. Too many hot appliances and dangerous utensils.
Keep prepared foods away from raw meat, poultry, seafood and eggs.
Cook food thoroughly, using a food thermometer to determine doneness. Internal food temperature should be 140 degrees Fahrenheit or above. Refrigerate food within two hours at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below.
Ditch leftovers after 4 days.

Keep Chimneys Clean

Enjoying a cozy fire is a holiday tradition in many homes with a fireplace, and precautions should be taken to do so safely.

We call this chimney fire season. People forget to open the damper or close the ash dump, or they sweep hot ashes down the dump and start fires. They burn unseasoned wood, or softwoods that produce a lot of creosote, which sticks to the walls of the chimney and is very flammable.
The most important precaution to prevent such fires is to have your chimney cleaned and inspected every year by a sweep who is certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America. Fires should be built in the rear of the fireplace, with wood placed on andirons or a metal grate.
A mesh metal screen or glass fireplace doors should be used to prevent sparks or embers from escaping the fireplace. Keep children and pets at least three feet away and make sure ribbons, gift wrap, boxes and other flammable materials are cleaned up.

Cold Weather Precautions

Have your furnace inspected and cleaned every year.
Keep anything that can burn at least three feet from heat sources.
Never use an oven for heat.
Portable space heaters should be UL rated and should shut off automatically if tipped over. Extension cords should never be used with a space heater. Space heaters should be turned off when no one is in the room, and when you go to sleep.
Keep a working fire extinguisher on each floor of your home.
Check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms each month to make sure they’re working; change the batteries twice a year.
Have a fire safety plan, and make sure everyone in the family knows what to do in case of a fire.

Holiday Package Theft

More than 25 million Americans have their packages stolen right from their doorsteps by porch pirates each year—don’t be one of them.

Track deliveries online and confirm delivery has occurred. You can sign up for email notifications to track your packages from initial shipment to its arrival at your home, or the recipient’s address if you have the gift delivered directly.
If you know a family member or neighbor will be home, ask them to pick up the packages as soon as they are delivered. Reward them with fresh baked cookies.
Switch delivery location to work where it can be received by someone and not left on the porch.
See if the post office or store the product is being shipped from can hold the package for pick up.
The post office will allow your package to remain safe and secure for up to 30 days.

Holiday Shopping

Extra precautions need to be taken when shopping during the holiday season. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

Stay alert and be aware of what’s going on around you.
Park in a well-lighted space, and be sure to lock the car, close the windows, and hide shopping bags and gifts in the trunk.
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash; pay with a check or credit card whenever possible.
Deter pickpockets and purse-snatchers. Don’t overburden yourself with packages. Be extra careful with purses and wallets. Carry a purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket.
Shopping with kids? Teach them to go to a store clerk or security guard if you get separated.

Holiday Traveling

We have a few tips for your holiday travels.

Ask a trusted friend, neighbor or Neighborhood Watch member to watch your home.
Use timers for lights and radios while you’re away.
Remember to make arrangements for mail and newspapers.
Avoid aggressive and angry driving.
Adjust following distance and speed in snowy or icy conditions.
Designate a sober driver or arrange for a cab ahead of time if you plan to drink at holiday gatherings.

Beware, tax scams come in all shapes

admin — Mon, 03 Oct 2022 17:12:04 +0000

The IRS keeps track of tax scams. But you, the taxpayer, should also be aware of these schemes, which, other than being illegal, can lead to massive problems, including the imposition of significant penalties, interest and possible criminal prosecution.

Here’s a look a some common schemes:

Return-preparer fraud. Dishonest tax-return preparers can cause many headaches for taxpayers who fall victim to their ploys. Such preparers derive financial gain by skimming a portion of the clients’ refunds and charging inflated fees for return-preparation services. Honest paid preparers sign all tax returns and enter their IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN).
Identity theft. Identity thieves use personal information such as your name, date of birth, and Social Security number without your permission to fraudulently file a tax return and claim a refund in their name.
Phishing. Scam artists use so-called “phishing” tactics to trick unsuspecting victims into revealing personal or financial information. Phishing scammers may pose as the IRS and send bogus emails or set up phony websites. Be aware that the IRS does not use emails or texts to contact taxpayers for personal information.
Frivolous arguments. Promoters have been known to make outlandish claims such that wages are not income, filing a return and paying taxes are merely voluntary, and being required to file Form 1040 violates the Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination. Don’t believe these or similar claims. Such arguments are false and have been thrown out of court.
“Free money” from the IRS. Flyers and ads for free money from the IRS, suggesting that the taxpayer can file a tax return with little or no documentation, have been appearing in community churches around the country. These schemes promise refunds to people who are elderly or have little or no income.
Hiding income offshore. The IRS is aggressively pursuing taxpayers involved in abusive offshore transactions as well as the promoters who facilitate these schemes.
Bogus charities. Following major disasters, it’s common for scam artists to impersonate charities to get money or private information from well-intentioned taxpayers.
Falsely claiming zero wages. Typically, an IRS Form 4852 (Substitute Form W-2) or a “corrected” IRS Form 1099 is used as a way to improperly reduce taxable income to zero.
False/inflated income and expenses. Including income that was never earned, either as wages or as self-employment, in order to maximize refundable tax credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit, is a popular scam.
False Form 1099 refund claims. The perpetrator files a fake information return, such as Form 1099, Original Issue Discount (OID), to justify a false-refund claim on a corresponding tax return.
Fuel-tax credit scam. The IRS receives claims for the fuel-tax credit that are excessive. Some taxpayers, such as farmers who use fuel for off-highway business purposes, may be eligible for the fuel-tax credit. But other individuals are claiming the credit when it is not warranted.

Don’t fall victim to these tax scams. Some of these schemes can literally cost your life savings. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Barry Lisak
-Author