As tax season approaches, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Security Summit partners reminded taxpayers, including families with children, to remain vigilant against potential online threats.
Without proper , taxpayers put themselves at risk for thieves to y steal their personal information. The IRS and its Security Summit partners encourage everyone to review resources available to them to stay well informed of evolved cybersecurity threats..
Members of the Security Summit partner with the IRS to protect taxpayers from tax-related identity theft. The Summit includes members from the nation's private sector tax industry, including state tax administrators, software companies, tax professionals, the IRS and others who work together to safeguard taxpayers year-round.
The IRS urges families to be aware of a variety of security vulnerabilities found online. Whether people are shopping online or browsing various social media sites, those less familiar with online security might put their personal information at risk from criminals.
Cybersecurity safety tips
Here are some practices to help protect against cybersecurity attacks:
Recognize scams and report phishing. It's important to remember the IRS does not use unsolicited email and social media to discuss personal tax issues, such as those involving tax refunds, payments or tax bills. The IRS will never call you directly or ask for personal information over the phone.
Protect personal information. Refrain from revealing too much personal information online. These include birthdates, addresses, and age and financial information, such as bank accounts and Social Security numbers.
Encrypt sensitive files such as tax records stored on computers.
Use strong passwords. Consider using a password manager to store and generate strong passwords.
Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA). Use this for extra security on online accounts.
Update computer and phone software. Enable automatic updates to install critical security updates.
Use security software, such as anti-virus and firewall protections.
Use a VPN. Criminals can intercept personal information on insecure public Wi-Fi networks. Individuals are encouraged to always use a virtual private network when connecting to public Wi-Fi.
If you are interested in learning more about cybersecurity and how to reduce your personal or business risk online, reach out to a KerberRose Technology advisor.
Sources :
(2023, October 31). IRS and Security Summit offer online safety tips during National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. IRS. https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-and-security-summit-offer-online-safety-tips-during-national-cybersecurity-awareness-month