The Internal Revenue Service today encouraged taxpayers to take simple steps to strengthen online security during Cybersecurity Awareness Month.
Cybersecurity Awareness Month highlights the role everyone can play in protecting personal, financial and tax information from identity thieves and scammers. For taxpayers, tax professionals and organizations across the tax community, which starts with everyday actions that help strengthen online security.
“Criminals continue to look for new ways to steal taxpayer information and exploit trusted partnerships,” said IRS Chief Executive Officer Frank J. Bisignano. “Taxpayers and tax professionals can help protect sensitive information and strengthen the security of the tax system by making cybersecurity practices part of their routine year-round.”
The IRS joins the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and Security Summit partners in encouraging taxpayers to make cybersecurity part of their daily routine. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) offer cybersecurity resources that individuals, families, businesses, and organizations can use to strengthen their online security.
Take simple steps to strengthen cybersecurity.
The IRS encourages taxpayers and tax professionals, businesses, and other organizations to take these steps:
- Use strong, unique passwords. Use different passwords for important accounts and consider using a password manager.
- Turn on multifactor authentication if available, to add an extra layer of protection to online accounts.
- Update software and devices. Install updates on computers, phones, tablets, apps, browsers, and security software. Turn on automatic updates when possible.
- Recognize and report scams. Be cautious of unexpected emails, text messages, social media messages, phone calls, or letters that request personal or financial information or pressure taxpayers to act immediately.
- Protect tax records. Store digital tax records securely, encrypt sensitive files and back up valuable information.
- Use secure networks. Avoid using public Wi-Fi to access financial accounts, tax records, or IRS online services.