MARION/JEFFERSON COUNTY — The Marion County and Jefferson County sheriff’s offices are alerting residents that scammers have been busy the past few days.

Both agencies have received numerous complaints from citizens who have received an automated phone message from someone claiming to be from the IRS and threatening that the residents will be arrested if they don’t respond.

Both agencies assure the public that these callers are NOT from the IRS and that IRS does NOT do business over the phone. If there is an issue with IRS they will mail you a letter.

If you receive any of these scam calls where they are threatening to take you to jail unless you pay, hang up on them.

Both offices advise that if ever in doubt about any calls you receive don’t hesitate to call Marion County at 548 2141 or Jefferson County at (618) 244-8015.