Avoid Tax-Related Identity Theft

Tax season is here, which means identity thieves will attempt to steal consumers’ tax returns by filing with their stolen information. Nothing can guarantee protection from identity theft, but there are preventative measures that can minimize risk this tax season, such as setting up Identity Protection PINs with the federal IRS (irs.gov) and Wisconsin DOR (revenue.wi.gov). These IP PINs add an extra layer of security to consumers’ tax filings by preventing someone else from filing a tax return in their name, even if they have someone’s personal information. Here are a few additional tips:

· File early and securely. Identity thieves can’t steal a tax return if the real person files first.

· Never store sensitive data on devices. If a consumer completes any tax paperwork as a digital file, they should back up the file and then delete it from their device after submission (and ensure it is no longer in their Recycle Bin or another holding location).

· Shred unneeded documents like bills, bank statements, receipts, medical information, credit card offers, or anything else containing personal or financial data.

· Protect mail using a mailbox lock, a Post Office Box, and the USPS Hold Mail® service. Consider stopping pre-approved credit card mail offers, which can contain sensitive information, at OptOutPrescreen.com or by calling (888) 567-8688.

· Place a security freeze on credit reports by contacting each of the three major credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) directly.

If a consumer experiences tax-related identity theft, they should take the following steps:

· Contact the Wisconsin Department of Revenue as soon as possible at 608-266-2772 or DorIDtheft@wisconsin.gov. · Report it to the IRS at IdentityTheft.gov. More information and resources are available at irs.gov.