Beware of fake sites, e-mails this tax season

March 4, 2011 – 11:10 am

The Internet makes things easier for everyone. You can do your shopping, research, education and business all without leaving your chair. You can even file your taxes online. In fact, the IRS is encouraging consumers to use eFiling over paper filing during this year’s tax season.

Unfortunately, identity thieves know this. The increased convenience of online tax preparation and filing has attracted phishing scams from fraudsters who pose as IRS agents. These scammers use scare tactics such as the threat of an audit, or promise of reward like a large refund to capture personal and sensitive information.

To prevent becoming a victim of identity theft this tax season, think twice before you share your personal information. With more and more people using Twitter, Facebook and other social media, and an ever-increasing volume of these accounts being compromised by phishing scams, it’s best to keep your personal information private. Even the most basic piece of information can sometimes help these crooks.

Remember that the IRS still corresponds the old-fashioned way: snail mail. If the agency needs to contact you for any reason, you’ll receive a letter. This is because of security and privacy reasons. The IRS has not ever, nor will it ever, contact consumers via e-mail or telephone.

If you are unsure whether any type of communication you receive is from the IRS, contact the IRS or your tax professional directly. Don’t feel pressured to respond to an e-mail. If the message attempts to push for a reply without time to review, this is a red flag for fraud. If it’s from a trusted source, follow up by calling them directly.

Protect yourself by taking the time to verify the source – before you provide your personal information. As always, when it comes to protecting your information, it’s best to err on the side of caution.

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