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Publish Date March 31, 2020
Every year, thousands of taxpayers are affected by tax-related identity theft. Nothing can ensure you’re 100% protected, but there are a few ways you can reduce your risk of tax-related identity theft this tax season.
File Early
Just because the tax deadline has been extended, doesn’t mean you should just sit around and procrastinate.
“Collect all necessary documents and file your taxes as soon as possible,” says Heidi Shumaker, Information Security Officer. “Extra time could allow someone with your personal information to file a fraudulent tax return in your name.”
Take Extra Measures
Do you believe someone has your personal information? Place a fraud alert or a credit freeze on your credit reports. A fraud alert will require creditors to take extra steps to verify your identity before they issue credit and a credit freeze will restrict access to your credit report making it harder to open new accounts using your name.
Protect Your Personal Information
“From phone call scams to phishing emails with malicious links or attachments, there are multiple tricks identity thieves will use to gain access to your personal information,” says Heidi. “If you receive unexpected, uninitiated or panicked emails or phone calls, it should raise a red flag.”
Be mindful of these tricks and tactics to prevent your information from getting into the wrong hands:
Look To Your Hometown Bank
At Fidelity Bank & Trust, we’re here to help you stay in control of your identity. Enroll in our ID Shield program, today, and protect yourself with the help of the nation’s premier provider of identity management services and protection services. If there is ever a breach, our professional and qualified staff will help to have your identity restored.