IR-2020-56, March 13, 2020
WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today reminded taxpayers to remain vigilant with their personal information by securing computers and mobile phones. Proper cybersecurity protection and scam recognition can reduce the threat of identity theft inside and outside the tax system.
This news release is part of a series called the Tax Time Guide, a resource to help taxpayers file an accurate tax return. Additional help is available in Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax.
The IRS doesn’t initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text messages or social media channels to request personal or financial information. People should be alert to scammers posing as the IRS to steal personal information. There are ways to know if it’s really the IRS calling or knocking on someone’s door.
The IRS also works with the Security Summit, a partnership with state tax agencies and the private-sector tax industry, to help protect taxpayer information and defend against identity theft. Taxpayers and tax professionals can take steps to help in this effort.
Set password and encryption protections for wireless networks. If a home or business Wi-Fi is unsecured, it allows any computer within range to access the wireless network and potentially steal information from connected devices. Whenever it is an option for a password-protected account, users also should opt for a multi-factor authentication process.
Set security software to update automatically so it can be updated as threats emerge. Educate children and those with less online experience about the threats of opening suspicious web pages, emails or documents.
Taxpayers can find answers to questions, forms and instructions and easy-to-use tools online at IRS.gov. They can use these resources to get help when it’s needed at home, at work or on the go.
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