Delaware Taxpayers Warned of Fraudulent Letter Scam

FROM THE DELAWARE DIVISION OF REVENUE: The Delaware Division of Revenue wants to alert citizens to a new taxpayer scam that is happening in Delaware. Victims may receive a letter from “The Bureau of Tax Enforcement” that threatens property seizure and wage garnishment unless they call a toll-free number to “avoid enforcement.”

“These scam mailings are designed to trick taxpayers into thinking they have received an official communication from the Division of Revenue,” warns Director Jennifer R. Hudson. The notices threaten the seizure of the taxpayer’s property if the recipient fails to make immediate payment. The scammers are accessing public records in order to include taxpayer-specific information on the notices to make them appear legitimate, and then using pressure tactics and fear to motivate the recipient into taking immediate action.

Taxpayers who think they may have received such a letter should contact the Division of Revenue at (302) 577-8200, option 3, with any questions. Taxpayers should also file a Consumer Complaint with the Delaware Department of Justice’s Consumer Protection Unit. Information about the complaint process is available at https://attorneygeneral.delaware.gov/fraud/cpu/ and the complaint form is available online – Consumer Complaint Form.