Tips for Protecting Your Tax Data

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In the modern world, it’s vitally important to protect your personal, financial and tax information from identity thieves and scammers. For taxpayers, that starts with everyday actions that help strengthen online security.

Take simple steps to strengthen cybersecurity

Here are some steps you can take to protect your information:

  • Use strong, unique passwords. Use different passwords for important accounts and consider using a password manager.
  • Turn on multifactor authentication if available, to add an extra layer of protection to online accounts.
  • Update software and devices. Install updates on computers, phones, tablets, apps, browsers and security software. Turn on automatic updates when possible.
  • Recognize and report scams. Be cautious of unexpected emails, text messages, social media messages, phone calls or letters that request personal or financial information or pressure taxpayers to act immediately.
  • Protect tax records. Store digital tax records securely, encrypt sensitive files and back up important information.
  • Use secure networks. Avoid using public Wi-Fi to access financial accounts, tax records or IRS online services.

Watch for tax scams

Scammers continue to use U.S. mail, emails, text messages, social media and phone calls to impersonate the IRS and other trusted organizations. These scams may promise a larger refund, claim a taxpayer’s account is locked, demand immediate payment or direct taxpayers to fake websites.

Businesses, payroll professionals and human resources offices should remain alert for phishing, fake invoices, W-2 and payroll-related schemes designed to steal employee information, credentials or money. Requests to change sensitive employee or payment information should be verified through a trusted channel.

How to know it’s the IRS

The IRS normally contacts taxpayers the first time by mail. The IRS sends emails or text messages only when taxpayers opt in and never sends direct messages through social media. The IRS or private collection agencies may call about account matters, but the IRS will never call to demand immediate payment, threaten arrest or tell taxpayers they are due a refund.

This article carries no official authority, and its contents should not be acted upon without professional advice. For more information about this topic, please contact our office.