This Tax Season

It is Tax Identity Theft Awareness Week, so take some time to read through these suggestions to make sure you're prepared:

• Don't trust emails of phone calls from people claiming to be with the IRS. The IRS will not contact you by email or by phone to confirm information on your tax return.
• Protect your SSN: If a criminal obtains your SSN, they can easily file a false tax return in your name. Keep your Social Security card locked in a safe place, and never give your SSN to anyone on the phone or in an email. 
• Do not click on suspicious email links or attachments, be weary of any email that you did not expect to receive. Report any tax-related phishing attempts to phishing@irs.gov
• Protect your computer. Install or update anti-virus software on your computer to help detect viruses and malware. 
• Shred outdated or unneeded documents containing sensitive personal information, such as Social Security numbers, bank account info, and unused credit card offers.