During the holiday shopping season, shoppers are looking for the perfect
gifts. At the same time, criminals are looking for sensitive data. This data
includes credit card numbers, financial accounts and Social Security numbers.
Cybercriminals can use this information to file a fraudulent tax return.
This tip is part of National Tax Security Awareness Week. The IRS is partnering
with state tax agencies, the tax industry and groups across the country to
remind people about the importance of data protection.
Anyone with an online presence can do a few simple things to protect their
identity and personal information. Following these eight steps can also help
taxpayers protect their tax return and refund in 2018:
- Shop
at familiar online retailers. Generally, sites with an “s” in “https” at the start
of the URL are secure. Users can also look for the “lock” icon in your
browser’s URL bar. That said, some criminals may get a security
certificate, so the “s” may not always mean a site is legitimate.
- Avoid
unprotected Wi-Fi. Users should not do online financial transactions when
using unprotected public Wi-Fi. Unprotected public Wi-Fi hotspots may
allow thieves to view transactions.
- Learn
to recognize and avoid phishing emails that pose as a trusted source. These emails can come
from a source that looks like a legitimate bank or even the IRS. These
emails may include a link that takes the user to a fake website. From
there, the thieves can steal usernames and passwords.
- Keep
a clean machine.
This includes computers, phones and tablets. Users should install security
software to protect against malware that may steal data. This software
also protects against viruses that may damage files.
- Use
passwords that are strong, long and unique. Experts suggest a
minimum of 10 characters. Use a combination of letters, numbers and
special characters. Use a different password for each account.
- Use
multi-factor authentication when available. Some financial
institutions, email providers and social media sites allow users to set
their accounts for multi-factor authentication. This means users may need
a security code, usually sent as a text to their mobile phone, in addition
to a username and password.
- Sign
up for account alerts. Some financial institutions will send email or text
alerts to an account holder when there is a withdrawal or change to their
accounts. Generally, people can check their account profile to see what
added protections may be available.
- Encrypt
sensitive data and protect it with a password. People who keep
financial records, tax returns or any personal information on their
computer should protect this data. Users should also back up important
data to an external source. When disposing of a computer, mobile phone or
tablet, people should make sure they wipe the hard drive of all
information before trashing.
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