In an effort to protect consumers during tax season, Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey warned Missourians to be aware of scammers and to take steps to protect themselves from anyone attempting to get their personal information. When it comes to personal information, General Bailey warned consumers to be vigilant in protecting their personal information, especially their social security numbers.
Follow these tips when filing your taxes:
Be suspicious of any unexpected communication supposedly from the IRS at the start of tax season.
Don’t fall for phone and phishing email scams supposedly from the IRS. Scammers often pose as the IRS using a fake scheme or warnings to pay past due taxes. The IRS does not initiate contact with taxpayers by email or phone calls to request personal or financial information. Scammers will also send emails that look official by using the IRS logo.
The IRS does not ask for passwords, PINS or confidential information for credit card, bank or other accounts.
File as quickly as possible. Tax identity theft occurs when someone steals your personal information to file a fraudulent return. The earlier you file; it is less likely that someone can use your information.