Protect Yourself From Tax Scams!
There are many tax scams out there with the purpose of stealing your identity, stealing your money, or filing fraudulent tax returns using your private information. Tax scammers work year-round, not just during tax season and target virtually everyone. Stay alert to the ways criminals pose as the IRS to trick you out of your money or personal information.

IRS-Impersonation Telephone Scam:
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Ways to Protect Yourself From Scams
• Personal information should not be provided over the phone, through the mail, or on the internet unless the taxpayer initiated the contact or is sure he or she knows with whom he or she is dealing.
• Social Security cards or any documents that include your Social Security number (SSN) or individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) should not be carried around.
• Do not give a business your SSN or ITIN just because they ask — provide it only if required.
• Financial information should be protected. Do not give out any financial information over the phone or via email.
• Credit reports should be checked yearly.
• You should review your Social Security Administration earnings statements annually.
• Protect personal computers by using firewalls and anti-spam/virus software, updating security patches and changing passwords for internet accounts.
• Report any instances of tax scams to the IRS.

