The Internal Revenue Service today urged people to continue practicing proper cybersecurity habits by securing computers, phones and other devices.
As a reminder, the IRS doesn’t initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text messages or social media channels to request personal or financial information. Generally, the IRS first mails a paper bill to a person who owes taxes.
A few tips to help minimize exposure to fraud and identity theft:
Protect personal information. Treat personal information like cash – don’t hand it out to just anyone.
Set password and encryption protections for wireless networks.
Never download “security” software from a pop-up ad.
Use security software. An anti-virus program should provide protection from viruses, Trojans, spyware and adware. The IRS urges people, especially tax professionals, to use an anti-virus program and always keep it up to date.
Set security software to update automatically so it can be updated as threats emerge.
Back up files. No system is completely secure. Copy important files, including federal and state tax returns, onto removable discs or back-up drives and cloud storage.
