article_snippet: ever seen -- swindling victims out of more than $15 million since it began in 2013.
article_snippet: Using identity theft technology, the thieves have successfully victimized more than 3,000 people in the past two years, although the Treasury Department cautions that number is only documented cases and the true number might be higher.
article_snippet: Timothy Camus said they've recorded more than 366,000 reports of contact with the scammers, and it's increasing at a rate of 10,000 to 12,000 a week.
article_snippet: Authorities believe the thieves are operating out of India, using phishing technology to make it appear Authorities're IRS agents in Washington.
article_snippet: The thieves are incredibly smart and convincing.
article_snippet: The thieves harness stolen identities and use programs such as Google Earth to identity locations where The thieves victims can transfer money.
article_snippet: Identity theft tops list of consumer complaints .
article_snippet: In December, federal authorities found and arrested two U.S.-based "runners" who admitted to transferring almost a million dollars from pre-paid cards to foreign bank accounts.
article_snippet: In many cases, victims are warned and stopped from sending more money by bank tellers or clerks at money wiring locations.
article_snippet: How hackers are stealing your tax refund .
article_snippet: The elderly are also a popular target, although the scam has grown so large, people of all ages, income levels and status are getting these calls.
highlights_snippet: Scammers warn of seizing property, prison time .
  