Online Security Advisory: Protecting Your Identity from Digital Tax Fraud
In the digital age, safeguarding personal and financial information is more crucial than ever. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has issued recommendations for taxpayers to follow, aimed at protecting them from online scammers.
Keep Social Security numbers (SSNs) private
It's essential to keep your SSN secure. Avoid carrying your SSN card and limit sharing it to only when absolutely necessary. Regularly check your Social Security earnings statement for accuracy to ensure no unauthorised activity.
Use strong, unique passwords
Strong passwords are your first line of defence against cyber threats. Use passwords of eight or more characters, mixing letters, numbers, and special characters. It's also important to use unique passwords for each account to prevent unauthorised access if one account is compromised.
Be cautious of phishing scams
Phishing scams often disguise themselves as emails from the IRS or banks, seeking to steal personal data. Remember, the IRS never requests personal or financial information via email or phone. If you receive such a request, do not respond.
Shred tax documents, bank statements, and receipts
Before disposing of sensitive documents, shred them to prevent thieves from accessing your information.
For tax professionals, there is an additional emphasis on implementing a Written Information Security Plan (WISP) to protect client data against identity theft and data breaches, a federal requirement reinforced by IRS security campaigns.
Secure wireless networks
When using wireless networks, encrypt them and create a strong password to prevent unauthorised access. Be cautious when using public wireless networks, as they may not be secure.
These guidelines are part of ongoing IRS and Security Summit campaigns aimed at educating taxpayers and tax professionals about evolving online security threats and encouraging proactive protection habits. Stay vigilant and protect your personal and financial information online.
In the digital world, maintaining strong cybersecurity practices is essential to safeguard our personal and financial information. Hence, using strong, unique passwords, secure wireless networks, and being cautious of phishing scams become crucial measures in our technology-driven era.
