Check your credit report regularly to detect fraudulent activity. Although you are entitled to receive a free copy of each of your credit reports annually from, you can also sign up for a free or premium credit-monitoring service.

When online, use strong passwords and security software, and never click on suspicious links or downloads. Additionally, learn about phishing scams and how to avoid them.

Protect your personal identity information throughout the year. Always keep your Social Security number and other personal data well-protected to minimize the chances of unauthorized access.

Instead, report these calls to the IRS by calling 80 or via the IRS Impersonation Scam Reporting website. Forward any suspicious or fraudulent contacts to Don’t give your personal or financial information to anyone who calls claiming to be with the IRS. The caller might threaten arrest or deportation, but don’t be intimidated.

Never respond to an email, text or social media contact claiming to be from the IRS. The IRS only initiates contact with taxpayers by postal mail.

Here are some steps you can take to protect your identity and your tax refund: How To Prevent Tax Refund FraudĬriminals make it their business to find ways to uncover and exploit your personal information - but you can make it your business to stop fraudulent tax returns from being filed in your name. Do all you can to protect your tax refund from identity theft. Then when tax time comes, scammers won’t already have the information they need to file a fake tax return and gain access to your money. See: 3 Ways Smart People Save Money When Filing Their Taxesĭon’t make the mistake of taking action only during tax season: Stay vigilant year-round to keep your personal information safe. Learn: 6 Types of Retirement Income That Aren’t Taxable

Although the IRS works diligently to counteract fraudulent returns, you are the first line of defense in keeping your data and identity safe. Identity theft isn’t limited to criminals opening credit cards and running up debt in your name - your tax return is also at risk.

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