Tax Identity Theft Week

Do you know the warning signs that an identity thief is using your Social Security number?

FTC’s Tax Identity Theft Awareness Week is a perfect time for consumers just like you to learn what identity theft is and how to protect yourself.
What is Identity Theft?

Any type of identity theft can disrupt your finances, credit history, and reputation, and take time, money, and patience to resolve.

Often, identity thieves will use a Social Security number, mother’s maiden name, date of birth, or account number to open fraudulent new credit card accounts, charge existing credit card accounts, write share drafts, open share accounts, or obtain new loans.

You may already know that identity theft is a serious crime. You take steps to protect your personal information by not opening unrecognized emails and shredding important documents. But, do you know how to recognize and prevent from becoming a victim of tax identity theft?

Tax identity thieves may use your Social Security number to get a tax refund or a job. If the IRS if sends you a notice saying their records show:

You were paid by an employer you don’t know, or More than one tax return was filed using your Social Security number, contact the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 1-800-908-4490.