Tax related identity theft is on the rise—here’s how to protect yourself
In a recent interview, Rachid Zahidi talked with Fox 45 Baltimore about how people can protect themselves from tax-related identity theft. While you may think that you’ve taken all precautions, more than 5.2 billion fraudulent tax returns were processed last year by the IRS.
With that in mind, Fox45 Baltimore talked with Zahidi, CEO of Sentinel Background Checks and author of The Business Immunity System.
He discussed some of the ways that you can ensure your identity is protected including:
- • If you are doing your taxes yourself: Use strong passwords, make sure your network is secure, that your computer is up to date and you don’t fall victim to phishing scams
- • If you are going to have someone else prepare your taxes: Choose someone who has a good reputation and is credible. Many times thieves will set up a false company and identity to trick taxpayers.
Other things to consider
While many people believe that filing online is riskier than the old-fashioned paper method, the opposite is actually true. According to Rachid, filing online, when done correctly and safely, is safer because there are no documents going back and forth in the mail that can be stolen.
While tax season is a vulnerable time for identity theft, it is always important to safeguard your personal information and protect your identity. If you have never done it, it is a good idea to check your credit to ensure that no one has used your social security number to apply for and rack up debt in your name.
For more information on ways to protect your identity or to make sure your background check is accurate, get in touch with Sentinel Background Checks today.