LOUDON COUNTY, Tenn. (WVLT) -- The Loudon County Sheriff's Office is telling citizens to be mindful of IRS scams this tax season.

We are starting to see an increase in scams, mostly by means of phone or email, that are related to tax returns and tax collections” said Sheriff Tim Guider.

“It’s important to us that we help educate our residents, ahead of time, so that they are familiar with the protocols the IRS has in place for dealing with your returns and any collections you may have due."

The sheriff gave some helpful reminders to residents about the IRS

- IRS does not visit your home, call by phone or accept payment by giftcards

- does not call to demand immediate payment using a specific payment method

- does not demand you pay taxes without the opportunity to question/appeal the amount owed

- does not threaten to involve law enforcement

- cannot revoke your driver's license, business licenses or immigration status

Threats that involve those elements are common tactics for scam artists.

For a list of the most recent tax scams and consumer alerts by the IRS, go here.