Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Commissioner Chuck Rettig has a message to taxpayers about personal data security.
Rettig reminds taxpayers that while the IRS is working hard to get ready for tax season, “You know who else is working hard? Identity thieves.” He adds,
Let’s not make it easy for them.
Rettig offered a few tips to help taxpayers protect their personal and financial data. Those tips were echoed on the IRS website where, among other things, taxpayers are advised to protect personal data. You should not routinely carry your Social Security card, and you should take steps to make sure your tax records are secure.
“Treat your personal information like you do your cash,” the IRS advises. “Don’t leave it lying around.”
You’ll find more tips here to protect yourself from identity theft and fraud. For more from the IRS, see Publication 4524, Security Awareness for Taxpayers (PDF).
