Protecting Yourself Against Cybercriminals During Tax Season

At TikTok, we are committed to promoting cyber awareness and safety within our global community. With Tax Day approaching, it is crucial to be vigilant against cybercriminals who may employ various tactics to deceive individuals into divulging sensitive information. To combat this, some TikTok creators, including Certified Public Accountants, lawyers, and fraud fighters, are sharing their expertise on #TaxTok to help others stay ahead of evolving fraud schemes.

To protect yourself from scams, it is important to be aware of common tactics used by cybercriminals. The IRS will never contact you via phone, text, email, or home visits, and they will not accept payment in gift cards, prepaid debit cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. Avoid opening links or attachments from suspicious senders, especially those related to COVID-19, Economic Impact Payments, or tax law changes, as these scams are increasingly prevalent this year.

To verify the authenticity of websites, ensure that the web address begins with "https://www.irs.gov/" for official IRS sites. When browsing e-commerce sites, look for the "https" at the beginning of the web address, indicating a secure connection. Additionally, check for the "padlock" icon in the browser's address bar, which signifies a secure connection between the browser and the website's server.

Protect your personal information by using secure Wi-Fi networks, virtual private networks (VPNs), and enabling 2-step verification. Avoid using unsecured public Wi-Fi, especially in public places like airports or malls. Secure your home Wi-Fi network with a strong password, as devices like wireless printers, door locks, and refrigerators can create new access points for potential hackers. Consider using a secure cloud service or external hard drive to back up important information, such as photos and files, to prevent data loss.

If you encounter suspicious activity or potential scams, report them to the appropriate authorities, such as the FTC, IRS, Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, or Identity Theft Resource Center. Within the TikTok app, report any suspicious activity to TikTok's Safety Center. Stay informed by following @TikTokTips for more tips on how to #BeCyberSmart.

It is essential to file your taxes as early as possible and conduct thorough research before sharing personal information with tax preparers. Use a secure internet connection when filing taxes online or consider mailing your tax documents directly from the post office for added security.

Tax season is a prime time for identity theft, so it is crucial to be cautious and diligent in protecting your personal information. Work with reputable professionals recommended by trusted sources when seeking tax preparation services.

By raising awareness and providing valuable tips, TikTok's #BeCyberSmart initiative aims to empower individuals to protect themselves against cybercriminals during tax season. Remember to always stay vigilant, report potential scams, and secure your online accounts. Together, we can create a safer online community.

In collaboration with our fraud awareness champions, we have developed a bingo card as a fun way for individuals to enhance their cybersecurity skills. Good luck, and remember to always #BeCyberSmart!