What should you do if you're unsure about a caller claiming to be from the IRS?

If you're unsure about a caller claiming to be from the IRS, the most prudent course of action is to hang up and call the IRS directly. This approach is correct because it protects you from potential scams or identity theft, which are unfortunately common in situations like this.

Scammers often impersonate officials from government institutions to extract personal information or money. By hanging up and reaching out to the IRS directly through their official contact numbers — which you can find on their official website — you ensure that you are communicating with a legitimate source. This helps verify whether the call you received was legitimate or fraudulent, providing peace of mind and safeguarding your personal information.

Choosing to provide information, asking the caller to call back later, or requesting further details about their claims could potentially lead to compromising your information or being drawn into a scam. These actions might not provide clarity and could place you at risk, making them less advisable than directly contacting official channels.