Doing your taxes can be stressful enough — that’s why you need to be more aware of potential tax scams. With the April 17, 2018, tax filing deadline approaching, taxpayers would be wise to put cybersecurity at the top of their tax checklist.
The best way to avoid becoming a victim is to follow some helpful cybersecurity tips that can keep you safe all year, while adding a degree of caution when submitting the sensitive information from your tax returns. Implementing the following tips will help ensure you don’t fall prey to tax scams:
n Be cautious. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) does not contact taxpayers through email, text message, or social media — never share any personal or payment information through these channels.
n Think before you click. Be especially cautious with emails that claim to be from the IRS and contain links or attachments. Cyber criminals may try to install malware on your computer to steal your tax information.
n Verify site authenticity. Scammers will sometimes create websites with URLs that are very similar to authentic tax filing websites. Misspelled brand names or “government” websites that use .com rather than .gov typically indicate fraudulence.
n Use secure networks. Criminals can use public Wi–Fi or weak networks to intercept information. When filing taxes, use a secure, password-protected network.
n Use strong passwords. If you file your taxes online, use a strong password to protect your personal information (see blue.usps.gov/cyber/password-safety.htm).
n File early. Criminals can file fraudulent tax returns using stolen personal information. One of the best defenses is to file before they have the chance.
Beware of the following signs that you may be a victim of tax fraud:
n You are notified that a tax return was already filed for the current year using your Social Security Number.
n You are asked to pay additional taxes for a year you did not file a tax return.
n You are informed that you received wages from an employer for whom you never worked.
The IRS website offers more information to help you choose a tax return preparer (see irs.gov/tax-professionals/choosing-a-tax-professional). If you believe you’ve been a victim of fraud, report your suspicions to the IRS at irs.gov/individuals/how-do-you-report-suspected-tax-fraud-activity.
Remember to report any suspicious activity encountered on USPS® systems, networks, or equipment to the CyberSecurity Operations Center (CSOC) via email at CyberSafe@usps.gov or by phone at 866-877-7247.
For more information on how to report suspected threats, visit the CyberSafe at USPS® websites on Blue (blue.usps.gov/cyber/) and LiteBlue (liteblue.usps.gov/cyber/), or the public-facing website at uspscybersafe.com.
— Corporate Information Security Office,
Chief Information Security Officer
and Digital Solutions, 3-15-18
