As tax returns are being prepared across Hightop Ridge, the Converse Police Department is reminding residents that this time of year often brings a surge in tax-related scams.

For families expecting refunds, seniors managing fixed incomes, and small business owners organizing financial records, one convincing phone call or email could quickly turn into identity theft or financial loss. That’s why local officers are asking residents to pause, verify, and protect their information.

Tax season scams are not new — but they are evolving. And in many cases, they are designed to look local.

Common Tax Scams Targeting Hightop Ridge

The department’s advisory highlights two of the most common fraud tactics seen during tax season: email phishing scams and phone scams.

Understanding how each works can help residents avoid becoming victims.

Email Phishing Scams: What to Watch For

One of the most frequent schemes involves emails claiming to be from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

The IRS does not initiate contact with taxpayers by email to request personal or financial information.

If you receive a suspicious email claiming to be from the IRS:

• Do not open any attachments
• Do not click on links
• Do not reply to the sender

These emails often attempt to trick recipients into entering Social Security numbers, bank information, or login credentials on fake websites designed to look official.

For residents in Hightop Ridge, the safest approach is simple: delete the message and verify directly through IRS.gov if you have concerns.

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Phone Scams: Pressure, Threats, and Urgency

Phone scams remain one of the most aggressive tax fraud tactics.

The IRS does not leave pre-recorded, urgent, or threatening messages on an answering system.

Scammers, however, often do.

According to the Converse Police Department, callers may:

• Threaten to call police or other law enforcement agencies to arrest you
• Threaten deportation or license revocation
• Demand immediate payment
• Request payment using prepaid debit cards, gift cards, or wire transfers
• Ask for checks to third parties
• Demand payment without allowing you to question or appeal the amount owed

These tactics are designed to create panic and prevent victims from thinking clearly.

The department’s message to Hightop Ridge residents is direct: Do not give out ANY information. Hang up immediately.

Caller ID Spoofing: Why the Call May Look Local

Criminals can fake, or “spoof,” caller ID numbers to appear as though they are calling from anywhere in the country — including your local area code.

Scammers can even spoof:

• An IRS office phone number
• Local police department numbers
• State or federal agency numbers
• Tribal government agency numbers

That means a call that appears to come from a trusted source may still be fraudulent.

Residents in Hightop Ridge should not rely on caller ID alone when determining whether a call is legitimate.

How to Verify a Real IRS Notice

If you are unsure whether a tax notice is legitimate:

• Log into your secure IRS Online Account
• Contact the IRS directly using official phone numbers listed on IRS.gov
• Do not use phone numbers provided in suspicious messages

Taking a few extra minutes to verify could prevent months — or years — of financial recovery.

Protecting Vulnerable Neighbors in Hightop Ridge

Tax scams frequently target seniors, immigrants, and individuals unfamiliar with IRS procedures. The Converse Police Department encourages residents to share this information with family members and neighbors.

A quick conversation could help someone avoid losing their savings.

As the advisory emphasizes: Be alert. Be aware. Be in control.

Tax season should be about filing accurately and receiving what you’re owed — not worrying about fraud. By staying informed and cautious, residents of Hightop Ridge can protect themselves and each other.

For continued local safety updates and community alerts for the City of Converse, stay connected with My Neighborhood News.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.