Theresa Gordon Tax Services (TG Tax Services) informed clients of a cybersecurity incident involving unauthorized access to its tax filing software. The breach occurred between May 21, 2023, and July 12, 2023, and was discovered through a forensic investigation completed on August 9, 2024. During the breach, certain files containing sensitive personal information, including Social Security numbers, may have been accessed. TG Tax Services emphasized its commitment to maintaining client trust and promptly addressing the situation.
Upon discovering the incident, TG Tax Services worked closely with the IRS to protect its clients from potential fraudulent tax returns. The firm obtained a new Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN) and provided the IRS with detailed information about the breach. Additionally, TG Tax Services engaged cybersecurity experts to investigate the issue, ensure the security of its systems, and prevent similar incidents in the future. The firm also required its tax application providers to revise security measures and implement multi-factor authentication.
To support affected clients, TG Tax Services is offering complimentary access to Experian IdentityWorks, providing identity monitoring and restoration services for a designated period. Clients are encouraged to enroll in the program and activate fraud detection tools to monitor their credit and detect potential misuse of their personal information. The service also includes identity restoration assistance and $1 million in identity theft insurance to cover certain costs related to fraud.
TG Tax Services advised clients to remain vigilant by reviewing financial accounts and credit reports regularly for suspicious activity. The firm provided resources for placing fraud alerts or security freezes on credit files, obtaining free credit reports, and reporting fraudulent activity to the IRS. TG Tax Services expressed regret for any inconvenience caused by the incident and reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing security measures to protect client information.
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