With tax season well under way many different sources are reporting related scams directed at private individuals and HR Professionals. According to the IRS, they have seen an approximate 400 percent surge in phishing and malware incidents so far in the 2016 tax season. Their website, www.IRS.gov (search "scams") is full of recent Email, Phishing and Telephone Scams. Cyber criminals are after W-2 information so they can file fake tax returns to claim refunds from the government.
The Society For Human Resource Management sited an ongoing scam directed at HR Professionals, who are receiving emails that appear to be coming from their CEO, requesting lists of employees and their sensitive payroll information including social security numbers.
Whether you are an HR Professional or an individual receiving a personal email, text or phone call, you should always question any request for personal information. Stay alert to it at all times.
Remember:
Banks, Credit Unions or other financial institutions do not request account numbers, passwords, social security numbers or other personal information over the phone
The IRS doesn’t initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text messages or social media channels to request personal or financial information.
Do not click on links or download attachments from unknown or suspicious e-mails.
Verify before you send any information.
Your best defense is education. There is great information on our website blog (www.nashvillecomputer.com/blog), or the IRS website (www.IRS.gov) to help you keep your identity safe. And as always, call us if you have questions or if you need help. We are experts in Cyber Security. Our phone number is 615-645-1144.
