Suggestions from the IRS on How to Stay Safe Online

Common sense tips to help children, teens and other vulnerable groups

The Internal Revenue Service is helping families, teens and senior citizens learn about the continued importance of protecting personal information in helping fight identity theft and tax fraud. “The IRS is asking parents, families and others to be mindful of the pitfalls that can be found by sharing devices at home, shopping online and through navigating various social media platforms. Often, those who are less experienced can put themselves and others at risk by leaving an unnecessary trail of personal information for fraudsters.

Staying Safe Online

Here are a few common-sense suggestions that can make a difference for children, teens and other vulnerable groups to potential dangers to protect their personal data:

1. Teach them to recognize and avoid scams. Phishing emails, threatening phone calls and texts from thieves posing as the IRS or legitimate organizations pose ongoing risks.

2. Do not click on links or download attachments from unknown or suspicious emails. Remind them why security is important. Be careful not to reveal too much personal information.

3. Keeping data secure and only providing what is necessary minimizes online exposure to scammers and criminals. Birthdates, addresses, age, financial information such as bank account and Social Security numbers are among things that should not be shared freely.

4. Teach them about public Wi-Fi networks. Connection to Wi-Fi in a mall or coffee shop is convenient but it may not be safe. Hackers and cybercriminals can easily intercept personal information. Always use a virtual private network when connecting to public Wi-Fi. Always use security software with firewall and anti-virus protections. Make sure the security software is always turned on and can automatically update.

5. Remember, to encrypt sensitive files such as tax records stored on computers. Be sure all family members have comprehensive protection especially if devices are being shared.

6. Use strong, unique passwords for each account.

7. Remember, the IRS does not use text messages or social media to discuss personal tax issues, such as those involving tax refunds, stimulus payments or tax bills.

For more information, visit the Tax Scams and Consumer Alerts page on IRS.gov.”

We can also help implement these tips. Please reach out to sdieck@pistonewealth.com for more information.

Disclaimer: Nothing on this Blog constitutes fraud planning advice, investment advice, performance data or any recommendation that any security, portfolio of securities, investment product, transaction or investment strategy is suitable for any specific person. From reading this Blog we cannot assess anything about your personal circumstances, your finances, or your goals and objectives, all of which are unique to you, so any opinions or information contained on this Blog are just that – an opinion or information. You should not use this Blog to make financial decisions and we highly recommend seeking a professional you trust who is authorized to provide investment and tax advice.