9th Annual National Tax Security Awareness Week - December 2 to December 6, 2024
The IRS and its Security Summit partners are launching the 9th Annual National Tax Security Awareness Week, running from December 2 to December 6, 2024. This week-long campaign aims to raise awareness among taxpayers, tax professionals, and businesses about safeguarding sensitive financial and tax information, especially with tax season around the corner.
Here’s a detailed overview of this important initiative:
Why Tax Security Awareness Week Matters
Tax season is a prime opportunity for identity thieves, who exploit public anxiety and anticipation of refunds to commit fraud. Scammers use phishing emails, smishing (fraudulent texts), and phone calls to impersonate the IRS or legitimate organizations, luring victims into revealing sensitive data. These schemes can lead to identity theft, fraudulent tax returns, and financial loss.
Since its formation in 2015, the Security Summit—a coalition of the IRS, state tax agencies, and tax professionals—has made significant progress in combating tax-related identity theft. However, the threats are evolving, making public awareness and vigilance critical.
Daily Themes and Focus Areas
Each day of the week will focus on specific aspects of tax security:
Personal Data Protection: Simple steps like using strong passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication, and securing Wi-Fi networks can dramatically reduce risks.
Recognizing and Avoiding Scams: Learn to identify phishing and smishing attempts, which often use alarming language or promises of refunds to deceive victims.
Technology Safety: Taxpayers and professionals will receive tips on using security software, data encryption, and secure online platforms for tax filing.
Protecting Vulnerable Groups: Special outreach efforts will target seniors, young adults, and others who may be less familiar with scams or who may not file tax returns but are still at risk.
Business and Tax Professional Safeguards: Businesses, particularly tax preparers who hold sensitive client data, are a growing target for cybercriminals. Guidance will emphasize best practices for protecting client information and preventing data breaches.
Emerging Threats
The IRS warns of increasingly sophisticated tactics from identity thieves:
Impersonation Scams: Criminals posing as the IRS or financial firms request personal data under the guise of resolving tax issues.
Fake Clients: Scammers approach tax professionals, claiming to need services, to gain access to systems or sensitive information.
Seasonal Scams: Scammers use holidays or news events to craft convincing fraud schemes, often targeting charitable donations or refund expectations.
What Can You Do?
Taxpayers and professionals are encouraged to:
Verify Communications: Remember, the IRS does not initiate contact via email, text, or social media.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication: Protect accounts with an additional layer of security.
Report Suspicious Activity: Forward phishing emails to phishing@irs.gov and report scams to the IRS or the Federal Trade Commission.
Stay Educated: Use the resources provided during Tax Security Awareness Week to learn about emerging threats and prevention strategies.
Collaborative Success
Since the Security Summit’s inception, fraudulent tax returns have dropped significantly, but the constant evolution of identity theft tactics requires ongoing efforts. Tax Security Awareness Week serves as a platform to empower taxpayers and professionals with knowledge and tools to protect themselves.
For detailed tips, educational resources, and updates throughout the week, visit the IRS Tax Security Awareness page.
By staying informed and vigilant, everyone can contribute to a safer, fraud-free tax season.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal tax advice. Advanced Tax Solutions is not liable or responsible for any damages resulting from or related to your use of this information. It is your responsibility to refer to official IRS documentation for information regarding any tax laws or tax information shown here.
