The US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has issued an urgent reminder for taxpayers to remain vigilant against holiday scams as the ninth annual National Tax Security Awareness Week begins. This initiative, launched in partnership with state tax agencies, tax professionals, and private industry, emphasizes protecting personal and financial information during the holiday shopping season and the upcoming tax filing period. With cybercriminals ramping up their efforts, taxpayers are encouraged to adopt robust cybersecurity practices to defend against identity theft and fraud.
The holiday season presents scammers with prime opportunities to exploit unsuspecting individuals. Common schemes include phishing emails disguised as delivery notifications and fraudulent messages claiming to be from the IRS. These scams often trick victims into clicking malicious links, providing sensitive information, or downloading malware. Tax-related scams, such as fake messages promising refunds or claiming unpaid tax bills, are also on the rise, targeting taxpayers during a period when they are more likely to interact with financial and tax services.
The IRS advises several practical steps to protect personal information. Shoppers should prioritize websites with “https” in their URLs, avoid using public Wi-Fi for transactions, and enable security features like multi-factor authentication on online accounts. Keeping devices updated with the latest security software and using strong, unique passwords further reduces the risk of cyberattacks. Families are encouraged to monitor the online activities of younger and older members who may be more susceptible to scams, ensuring their devices are equally secure.
Throughout National Tax Security Awareness Week, the IRS and its partners will continue to educate taxpayers and tax professionals about evolving threats, such as spear phishing, clone phishing, and whaling attacks, which target individuals and organizations with tailored, sophisticated tactics. By remaining cautious and following recommended safety measures, taxpayers can significantly reduce their exposure to scams and identity theft, safeguarding their personal and financial well-being during this busy season.
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