Image
January 31, 2025

Stay Protected During Tax Season

Stay Protected During Tax Season

January 6, 2024

Tax season is here, and while you’re busy crunching numbers and filing returns, scammers are working overtime to steal your hard-earned money. With over $2.1 billion in tax fraud identified by the IRS Criminal Investigation unit in fiscal year 2024 (Source: Accounting Today), and the U.S. Department of the Treasury recovering a staggering $4 billion in fraud and improper payments in the same year, the stakes have never been higher. (Source: U.S. Department of the Treasury)

That’s where IDSeal comes in. With comprehensive identity monitoring, device protection, and fraud prevention tools, IDSeal acts as your first line of defense against tax-season scams. From detecting suspicious activity on your accounts to providing secure storage for sensitive information, IDSeal’s identity and device protection services help you stay one step ahead of cybercriminals.

Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and your identity this tax season:

Common Tax Scams

Tax season is prime time for identity thieves and fraudsters. With so many people accessing and sending sensitive information, it’s no wonder why. Common scams include:

  • Phishing Emails: Hackers send emails that appear to be from the IRS or tax professionals, tricking you into sharing sensitive information.
  • Fake IRS Calls: Scammers impersonate IRS agents, threatening fines or jail time unless immediate payment is made.
  • Fraudulent Tax Preparers: Some so-called tax preparers misuse your personal information to file false returns or steal your refund.
How Identity Thieves Exploit Tax Season

Once identity thieves obtain your personal information — such as your Social Security number, date of birth, or financial account details — they can wreak havoc in several ways. One of the most common schemes involves filing fraudulent tax returns in your name to claim refunds that rightfully belong to you. This type of tax fraud can result in significant delays to your legitimate refund, leaving you frustrated and scrambling to resolve the issue with the IRS.

But the damage doesn’t stop there. Identity thieves may also use your stolen information to commit other forms of financial fraud, such as opening unauthorized credit accounts, applying for loans, or even accessing your bank accounts. The ripple effects of these crimes can be devastating, impacting your credit score and financial stability.

Remember: Tax season should be about checking off financial to-dos, not untangling the mess caused by identity theft.

Tips to Stay Safe From Tax Fraud

  • Recognize Phishing Attempts: The IRS does not initiate contact via email or text. If you receive such communication, it’s a red flag. Always verify email senders and avoid clicking on suspicious links.
  • Safeguard Your Personal Information: Use strong passwords for all accounts and avoid sharing sensitive information over the phone or email.
  • Verify Your Tax Preparer: Do your homework to ensure your tax preparer has a valid Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). Also be sure to check reviews and credentials before sharing your personal details.
  • File Early: Beat scammers to the punch by filing your taxes as early as possible. This reduces the window of opportunity for fraudsters to file a return in your name.

What to Do If You’re a Victim of Tax Fraud

If you suspect tax fraud, take immediate action:
  1. Contact the IRS: Call the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 1-800-908-4490.
  2. File IRS Form 14039: Submit this form to alert the IRS to suspected identity theft.
  3. Report Scams: Use the IRS Impersonation Scam Reporting form or call 1-800-366-4484.
  4. Monitor Your Credit: Check for unauthorized activity and consider placing a fraud alert on your credit report.

Stay One Step Ahead

But don’t let it come to this. The best way to protect yourself is to take control of your personal security before it’s too late. By choosing IDSeal’s robust identity monitoring and device protection services, you’re protecting your sensitive information and ensuring your peace of mind during tax season and beyond. You’ll get features like credit monitoring, financial fraud monitoring, and a vault for sensitive documents, to arm yourself against lurking tax scammers. This way, you can focus on filing your taxes confidently, knowing that your personal data is safeguarded from threats.

Start protecting your identity today! Signing up is quick & easy

Remember, 1-in-4 Americans are the victim of identity theft. It's not a matter

of if you'll become a victim, it's when...

Get Protected