[grecy]

This is so true. My father is getting closed to getting conned now.

I tell him that no matter who contacts him and how (could be the government, IRS, bank, and could be phone, or email or a door knock) he should politely end the contact immediately.

Don't listen to what they have to say, don't give them a single shred of information - not even his name or address or anything.

If he is really convinced it's something legit, HE should initiate contact with whoever they said they were - find THEIR phone number or website and contact them and ask.

That way at least he can be sure he knows who is on the other end.