Beware tax and IRS scams this season

As tax season opens this year, please be mindful of possible tax and IRS scams that could happen as you file your taxes this year. Here are some helpful tips!

Things the IRS will never do: 

1. Call to demand immediate payment using a specific payment method such as a pre-paid debit card, gift card or wire transfer. The IRS does not use these methods for tax payments.
2. Threaten to immediately bring in local police or other law-enforcement groups to have the taxpayer arrested for not paying. 
3. Demand that taxes be paid without giving taxpayers the opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed.
4. Ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone. 

Tax Season security basics:

• File your taxes as early as possible.
• Protect your personal information.
• Keep your computer secure and up-to-date.
• Don't fall for phony threats or requests for information. 

Tips for safely e-filing taxes: 

• If you hire a third-party provider to file on your behalf, do some research and ensure they're trustworthy.
• Always protect sensitive accounts with strong, unique passphases.
• Before submitting any personal info, verify that the site you're on is legit and shows a green padlock by the URL.
• When downloading tax documents, be sure to save them to a secure location where they can't easily end up in the wrong hands.