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  • It is the start of tax season in the US, which typically sees a sharp increase in scams, including anything from fake IRS emails to calls demanding money
  • A cybersecurity expert from NordVPN has put together some comments on the rise of tax scams and tips for protecting Americans from fraud may be of interest.

Adrianus Warmenhoven, cybersecurity expert at NordVPN, comments: “Tax season has arrived in the US, and with it comes a prime opportunity for cybercriminals to target unsuspecting individuals.

“As W-2 forms begin to fill mailboxes, taxpayers must remain vigilant against scams aimed at stealing personal information, tax refunds, or even Social Security numbers.

“Fraudsters frequently exploit the urgency of tax season, posing as trusted bodies like the IRS or tax preparers to deceive their victims.

“Americans should be particularly cautious of unsolicited phone calls, emails, or text messages claiming to be from the IRS. Remember, the IRS will never contact you via phone, email, or text to demand immediate payment or request sensitive information.

“Any correspondence urging immediate action or promising to quickly resolve tax problems should immediately raise suspicion.

“Cybercriminals often use sophisticated tactics, including phishing emails, fraudulent websites, and fake phone numbers, to trick individuals into revealing confidential details. But communications riddled with poor grammar, generic greetings with your name, or strange punctuation are clear red flags.

“Filing your taxes early is one of the best ways to safeguard against scammers attempting to file fraudulent returns under your name, as the number of scams typically increases as we approach the deadline.

“If you are working with a tax preparer, it’s critical to thoroughly research their credentials and reputation through trusted sources. Be wary of anyone guaranteeing unrealistic results or refunds, as these promises are often too good to be true.

“The consequences of these tax-related scams can be devastating. Scammers may use stolen information to file fraudulent returns, claim refunds, or even commit additional forms of fraud under the victim’s name. In some cases, personal information such as Social Security numbers ends up on the dark web, exposing victims to future risks.

“If you suspect tax identity theft, take action immediately. Contact the IRS, file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and use the FTC’s personalized recovery resources to address the issue. Victims will also need to file an Identity Theft Affidavit with the IRS to begin rectifying the situation.

“Navigating tax season safely requires vigilance, caution, and informed decision-making. By being proactive and staying alert to scams, you can protect your personal information, avoid identity theft, and ensure your hard-earned money stays in your hands — not in the hands of criminals.”

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