Safeguard Your Personal and Financial Data

By Keiter CPAs

Safeguard Your Personal and Financial Data

Phishing attempts are on the rise and not just during tax season

Cybercriminals are continuously looking for new ways to gain access to your sensitive information. One method that is becoming increasingly popular is posing as a trusted tax professional in an effort to gather your financial details. In some cases, scammers send emails that appear to be from a familiar tax preparer or firm, asking for personal or financial information under the guise of assisting with tax preparation.

While these phishing scams are becoming more sophisticated, making it harder to distinguish legitimate requests from fraudulent ones, there are some key signs to look out for. It is important to be aware of the latest scamming trends and learn to identify signs of fraudulent emails to protect your data and avoid falling victim to identity theft or financial fraud.

Scammers posing as a tax professional

Scammers may pose as a tax professional to deceive individuals into handing over sensitive information. They may send emails using official-sounding language and even reference real tax issues to appear credible. In many cases, scammers may create a time-sensitive scenario to illicit a quick response from their target. Their goal is to gain access to bank information, Social Security numbers, financial records, or login credentials, which can then be used to commit identity theft or fraud.

Example of an email impersonating a tax professional:

While there are many examples of creative techniques scammers use in an attempt to collect your data, the following is a common example of subtle signs that an email is not legitimate:

Fraudulent emails can also include links or attachments that may contain malware.

Stay vigilant against cyber threats year-round

While tax related phishing scams are at a peak during the January to April months, it is important to remain vigilant at all times. Do not include sensitive information in an email. Verify requests for information by phone using a phone number that is known to you, not one that has been provided in the email requesting the funds.

How to report phishing scams

The IRS advises everyone to report all phishing emails and other scams.

Report all unsolicited email – including the full email headers – claiming to be from the IRS or an IRS-related function to phishing@irs.gov. For those experiencing any monetary losses due to an IRS-related scam incident, please report it to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA)Federal Trade Commission and the Internet Crime Complaint Center. People can also forward the email to your Internet Service Provider’s abuse department.

 

For assistance meeting your company’s cybersecurity governance needs, contact your Keiter Opportunity Advisor or our Cybersecurity specialists today.

Download Keiter’s Cybersecurity resource guide for quick tips on how to defend against cyber threats:

CyberSecurity Desktop Guide Thumbnail

 

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About the Author


Keiter CPAs

Keiter CPAs

Keiter CPAs is a certified public accounting firm serving the audittax, accounting and consulting needs of businesses and their owners located in Richmond and across Virginia. We focus on serving emerging growth businesses and companies in the financial servicesconstructionreal estatemanufacturingretail & distribution industries and nonprofits. We also provide business valuations and forensic accounting servicesfamily office services, and inbound international services.

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The information contained within this article is provided for informational purposes only and is current as of the date published. Online readers are advised not to act upon this information without seeking the service of a professional accountant, as this article is not a substitute for obtaining accounting, tax, or financial advice from a professional accountant.

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