Nothing funny about this scam: Hang up if you get a call from "Steve Martin"

MADISON – The Consumer Information Hotline at the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) has received a number of inquiries about a government imposter phone scam. Wisconsin residents statewide are receiving prerecorded calls from “Steve Martin” with the “U.S. Treasury.” If you receive a similar call, hang up immediately and do not call back the number noted in the message.

Officials say unfortunately, this type of government imposter scam is quite common. Scammers will call consumers out of the blue claiming that they are with the IRS, law enforcement or another government agency. The caller will threaten the consumer with arrest or financial penalties for supposedly failing to pay back taxes or unpaid loans, for failing to report for jury duty or for “check fraud.”

If you receive a similar call:


    For additional information or to file a complaint, visit the Consumer Protection Bureau at datcp.wisconsin.gov, send an e-mail to datcphotline@wisconsin.gov or call the Consumer Information Hotline toll-free at 1-800-422-7128.