The Threats Continue

          Taxpayers and Tax Professionals alike must continue to be vigilant against security threats. This is a year-round concern. Criminals involved in identity theft will always be one step ahead and willing to try new tactics, but they usually involve similar methods. Being familiar with these methods goes a long way to keep you and your information safe.

          They will attempt to phish the information they want through emails or text messages. The goal is to get you to give up passwords, bank account numbers, credit card numbers, and Social Security numbers. This is accomplished in two ways. The first is making you feel that the message is coming from someone or some entity that you trust. The second is that a false sense of urgency is created to make a person open a link or attachment, or in some other way give up their sensitive information.

          New schemes continue to emerge, but we can protect ourselves. If we stop and think, often we can reason on and figure out certain situations. Does the Internal Revenue Service really need my password? Why do I need to text my Social Security number right now? Do not feel pressured to do anything you are not comfortable with. Treat your personal information like cash, don’t give it away to just anyone. If you are unsure, make sure to call the actual agency or person and confirm the facts. 

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