Pennsylvania - The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue is warning businesses throughout the commonwealth of a scam in which fraudsters are impersonating the department mailing them false notices of investigation.

The fraudulent letters will direct business owners to turn over their accounting records in order for scammers to use for illicit activities that will greatly harm the business's financial standing.

Pennsylvania Revenue Secretary, Dan Hassell is urging Pennsylvanians to be on high alert if they receive any suspicious notice claiming to be from the revenue department.

"If you have any doubt at all about the legitimacy of a notice from the department, please use the contact information listed on our website. This is the best way to ensure you are speaking with a legitimate staff member at the Department of Revenue," Hassell said.

The department has offered some additional tips on how to avoid being the victim of this scam in addition to verifying that this information is coming from a legitimate representative.

- Examine the notice. The fraudulent notice (pictured below) uses very vague language to lure into as many victims as possible. Look for blatant factual errors and other inconsistencies. If the notice is unexpected and demands immediate action, be sure to verify its legitimacy before taking action.

- Conduct research online. Use the information in a potentially counterfeit notice like names, addresses and phone numbers to conduct an online search. The department's website, is the best way to verify the legitimacy.

A copy of the fraudulent letter is posted below.