Identity theft is so prevalent these days. It is too easy to have your social security number stolen. It has actually happened to me. Someone stole my identity and filed a tax return using my social security number. Luckily for me, I caught it early and was able to prevent any major damage to my credit file.
To help combat the effects of ID theft, the IRS has issued some useful tips for taxpayers.
- If you receive an email or website that does not appear to be valid you can send the information to phishing@irs.gov.
- The IRS also wants you to know that it will not initiate contact with you via email.
- The Federal Trade Commission has a website that you can visit to learn more about how to identify secure websites. Visit www.onguardonline.gov/tools/recognize-secure-site-using-ssl.aspx.
- Lastly, the IRS has a special section on its website called the IRS Identify Theft and Your Tax Records page. This page provides useful information to taxpayers who suspect that they might be victims.
Be alert. Be aware. And know your rights when it comes to identity theft.