The IRS and its Security Summit partners are urging taxpayers to stay vigilant during the holiday season, as scammers ramp up their efforts to steal personal information. These warnings coincide with the ninth annual National Tax Security Awareness Week, an initiative aimed at educating taxpayers and tax professionals about identity theft and data protection.
Holiday Scams on the Rise
Scammers often exploit busy periods like the holiday and tax seasons, employing sophisticated tactics to trick victims into revealing personal and financial information. Phishing emails, text messages, and fraudulent websites are common tools used by identity thieves. Some of the most prevalent scams include:
- Fake Delivery Messages: Fraudulent emails or texts claim a delivery issue and prompt recipients to click a link to reschedule. These links often lead to malware or phishing sites designed to steal sensitive data.
- IRS Impersonation Scams: Emails pretending to be from the IRS or tax-related organizations may offer unexpected refunds or claim unpaid tax bills. These often direct victims to malicious links or attachments.
IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel cautioned taxpayers: “Identity thieves exploit busy times like the holidays to target people. Always double-check before clicking any links, even if you’re expecting packages or tax-related communications.”
Cybersecurity Tips for Taxpayers
The Security Summit recommends several steps to help taxpayers protect their information:
- Shop only on secure websites starting with “https:” and look for a padlock icon in the browser.
- Avoid using public Wi-Fi for shopping or financial transactions.
- Update security software on all devices, including computers, tablets, and smartphones.
- Enable multi-factor authentication on online accounts whenever possible.
- Use strong, unique passwords and ensure family members follow similar practices.
- Install and maintain antivirus software with malware protection and enable firewalls.
Phishing and Other Email Scams
Phishing attempts remain one of the most effective methods for identity thieves to gain access to sensitive information. Common phishing tactics include:
- Phishing/Smishing: Generic emails or text messages trick users into clicking links or downloading malware.
- Spear Phishing: Highly targeted attacks tailored to individuals, often appearing as legitimate business inquiries.
- Clone Phishing: Duplication of legitimate emails with malicious attachments or links.
- Whaling: Scams targeting executives or individuals with access to significant organizational data.
Taxpayers should be especially cautious when receiving unsolicited messages requesting personal or financial information.
Responding to Identity Theft
If taxpayers suspect their information is being used fraudulently to file tax returns, they should file Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit. This form is available online for electronic submission or can be printed and mailed or faxed to the IRS.
About the Security Summit
The Security Summit is a collaborative initiative involving the IRS, state tax agencies, and industry professionals. Established in 2015, the Summit focuses on safeguarding the tax system and protecting taxpayers from identity theft through education and awareness campaigns.
By taking these precautions, taxpayers can help ensure their personal and financial information remains secure during the holiday and tax seasons.
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