WASHINGTON –The Internal Revenue Service, the states and the tax industry
today urged taxpayers to take steps to protect themselves online to help in the
fight against identity theft.
Scammers, hackers and identity thieves are looking to steal taxpayers’
personal information and ultimately their money. But, there are simple steps
taxpayers can take to help protect themselves, like keeping computer software
up-to-date and being cautious about giving out their personal information.
This is the first reminder to taxpayers during “National Tax Security
Awareness Week,” which runs through Friday. This week, the IRS, the states and
the tax community are joining together to send out a series of reminders to
taxpayers and tax professionals as a part of the ongoing Security Summit
effort.
Here are some best practices taxpayers can follow to protect their tax and
financial information:
- Understand and Use
Security Software. Security software helps protect computers against the
digital threats that are prevalent online. Generally, the operating system
will include security software or you can access free security software
from well-known companies or Internet providers. Essential tools include a
firewall, virus/malware protection and file encryption if you keep
sensitive financial/tax documents on your computer. Do not buy security
software offered as an unexpected pop-up ad on your computer or email.
It’s likely from a scammer.
- Allow Security Software
to Update Automatically. Set security software to update automatically. Malware
– malicious software – evolves constantly, and your security software
suite updated routinely to keep pace.
- Look for the “S.” When shopping or
banking online, always look to see that the site uses encryption to
protect your information. Look for “https” at the beginning of the web
address. The “s” is for secure. Unencrypted sites begin with an http
address. Additionally, make sure the https carries through on all pages,
not just the sign-on page.
- Use Strong Passwords. Use passwords of eight
or more characters, mixing letters, numbers and special characters. Don’t
use your name, birthdate or common words. Don’t use the same password for
several accounts. Keep your password list in a secure place or use a
password manager. Don’t share passwords with anyone. Calls, texts or
emails pretending to be from legitimate companies or the IRS asking to
update accounts or seeking personal financial information are almost
always scams.
- Secure Wireless
Networks.
A wireless network sends a signal through the air that allows it to
connect to the Internet. If your home or business Wi-Fi is unsecured, it
also allows any computer within range to access your wireless and
potentially steal information from your computer. Criminals also can use
your wireless to send spam or commit crimes that would be traced back to
your account. Always encrypt your wireless. Generally, you must turn on
this feature and create a password.
- Be Cautious When Using
Public Wireless Networks. Public Wi-Fi hotspots are convenient but often not
secure. Tax or financial Information you send though websites or mobile
apps may be accessed by someone else. If a public Wi-Fi hotspot does not
require a password, it probably is not secure. Remember, if you are
transmitting sensitive information, look for the “s” in https in the
website address to ensure that the information will be secure.
- Avoid E-mail Phishing
Attempts.
Never reply to emails, texts or pop-up messages asking for your personal,
tax or financial information. One common trick by criminals is to
impersonate a business such as your financial institution, tax software
provider or the IRS, asking you to update your account and providing
a link. Never click on links even if they seem to be from organizations
you trust. Go directly to the organization’s website. Legitimate
businesses don’t ask you to send sensitive information through unsecured
channels.
To learn additional steps you can take to protect your personal and
financial data, visit Taxes.
Security. Together. Also, read Publication
4524, Security Awareness for Taxpayers.
Each and every taxpayer has a set of fundamental rights they should be aware
of when dealing with the IRS. These are your Taxpayer
Bill of Rights. Explore your rights and our obligations to protect them on
IRS.gov.
Additional IRS Resources:
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