Stay Safe During Tax Season

Tax season can be stressful and bad cyber actors add even more anxiety to this season. Following a few best practices can help protect your refund!

Tips:

Get an Identity Protection PIN from the IRS - An IP PIN is a six-digit number that prevents someone else from filing a tax return using your Social Security number.
Beware of emails, calls, or texts "claiming" they are the IRS. The IRS will not call without sending physical mail first.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication which creates an extra layer of security, such as a fingerprint or a unique one-time code sent to your phone. Most online tax preparation services have this tool available.
File early! The sooner you file, the less time cybercriminarls have to file a fake return. While having your refund routed illegally to a scammer bank account isn’t common, getting done with your taxes reduces the chances. The IRS will not email, text, DM you, or try to friend you on Facebook.

Find more tips from the National Cybersecurity Alliance here.