WPBN: Again, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is working toward the same objective. The first concern when it comes to protecting taxpayers over the Christmas season is avoiding frauds. This caution follows the opening of the ninth annual National Tax Security Awareness Week.
To obtain your vital personal information, scammers employ a variety of techniques. They are attempting to steal your IRS tax refund in this manner. Act now if you don’t want to become their next victim. Remember that every month, frauds impact thousands of taxpayers.
Here are some helpful pointers to help taxpayers stay safe throughout the Christmas season:
- Purchase only from websites whose addresses begin with “https:” without the “s”; that way, secure connections are guaranteed.
- A padlock icon should be visible.
- Avoid making purchases in a store or shopping center while connected to Wi-Fi.
- To prevent security lapses, make sure you update all the software on your gadgets and devices (smart phones, computers, and tablets).
- Assist in safeguarding the gadgets of kids and elderly people who lack technical expertise.
- On your devices, turn on your firewall.
- Utilize PC antivirus software to stop malware from being installed.
- Use only strong and distinct passwords for your online accounts.
- Whenever possible, utilize multi-factor authentication.
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Over Christmas, the IRS alerts people to common frauds
Scams, regrettably, are getting increasingly complex. Therefore, it is frequently simple to fall into the traps set by scammers. Nowadays, one of the most frequent dangers to taxpayers is phishing emails.
Therefore, avoid opening any emails that you are unsure of where they came from, even if they appear to be from the IRS. Instead than clicking on links or unintentionally installing spyware, it is preferable to check your online account or go to your local office.
In addition to obtaining your private tax and financial data, scammers are keen to obtain your passwords, credit card details, bank account numbers, and Social Security numbers. They will definitely utilize it for identity theft and fraud.
