I
take security very seriously, so I want to post a
reminder that tax identity theft is a growing problem. Unfortunately, it can
take many forms, so beware if you:
·
Receive a notice or letter from the
Internal Revenue Service regarding a tax return, tax bill or income that does
not apply to you. It’s possible that someone has filed a false return using
your Employer Information or Social Security number to claim a refund or get a
job.
·
Get an unsolicited email or other contact
asking for either your personal financial details or business information such as payroll or
employee data. The IRS does not contact taxpayers using email, text or other
social media channels, so it’s likely that a scammer is trying to steal your
confidential information.
·
Receive a robocall insisting that you must
call back and settle your tax bill. The IRS does not initiate contact by phone
(it will be by mail), demand immediate payment over the phone, threaten to
arrest you or demand your credit or debit card number or that you use a certain
payment method — such as a gift card — to pay your taxes.
If
you receive any suspicious communications from the IRS, you can report the
contact by going to the IRS Impersonation Scam Reporting section of the IRS website or call the service
at 800.366.4484. I also urge you to contact my office for advice whenever you
receive communication from the IRS or believe you might have been the victim of
identity theft.
Andrew J. Jordan, CPA, MSF, CGMA
The information provided is not intended as a substitute for legal or other professional services. Legal or other expert assistance should be sought before making any decision that may affect your situation.
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