Protecting Your Identity During Tax Season

As we enter into tax season, more and more taxpayers are turning to the internet to file their taxes. Because so much of your identity and personal information is necessary to complete taxes, your identity becomes extremely vulnerable during tax season.

Recently, an e-mail has been going around claiming to come from the IRS to download an updated W-2 form for employers. The IRS DOES NOT initiate taxpayer communications through e-mail. If you receive an e-mail from someone who says they are the IRS, you should follow the steps listed at the IRS web site. Use this link to report potentially fraudulent e-mails.

The Internet has become the most popular site of identity theft. While filing taxes online is extremely convenient, it poses a greater risk than paper filing. If you choose to file online, make sure that you file with a valid company. You can check with your friends or family members, as well as consult the IRS web site, or toll free hotline (1-800-829-3676). When filing, make sure both your anti-virus and spyware software are working properly. You do not want anyone to see your information as it passes through the internet.

As always, if you have any questions, feel free to contact my district office at 225-3650.