6 Simple Ways to Protect Your Tax Information This Fall

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and the IRS is reminding everyone that a few simple habits can keep scammers away from your tax information. These steps help families, gig workers and small business owners alike.

Six everyday habits the IRS recommends

1. Use strong, unique passwords. Don't reuse the same password for email, banking and tax accounts. A password manager can help.
2. Turn on multifactor authentication wherever it's offered, so a stolen password alone isn't enough.
3. Keep devices updated. Install updates for your phone, computer, browser and security software, and turn on automatic updates.
4. Slow down on unexpected messages. Be careful with any call, text or email that asks for personal or financial details or pushes you to act right now.
5. Protect your tax records. Store digital copies securely, encrypt sensitive files and keep a backup.
6. Skip public Wi-Fi when you log in to bank accounts, tax records or IRS online services.

How to spot a fake "IRS" contact

The IRS usually contacts you first by mail. According to the IRS, it:

• Never reaches out through social media
• Only emails or texts you if you signed up for that
• Never demands immediate payment, threatens arrest, or announces a refund by phone

If someone promises a bigger refund, says your account is "locked," or sends you to an unfamiliar website, stop and check. You can report suspicious contacts at IRS.gov/SubmitATip.

Business owners: watch payroll and invoices

Restaurants, stores, trucking companies and other employers should watch for phishing emails, fake invoices and W-2 or payroll scams. If an "employee" or "vendor" emails asking to change bank details, confirm it with a phone call to a number you already have, not the one in the email.

Get an Identity Protection PIN

An IP PIN is a six-digit number that helps stop someone else from filing a federal return with your Social Security number or ITIN.

• Anyone with an SSN or ITIN who can verify their identity can get one. Parents can request one for dependents.
• The fastest way is through your IRS Online Account.
• You get a new IP PIN every year, and it must be used on any federal return you file that year.

This is general information, not advice for your specific situation.

Questions? Book a time at calendly.com/amrtax or call (732) 500-5941. New client? Start here.

Source: IRS IR-2026-119: Cybersecurity Awareness Month offers simple steps to protect tax data; IRS: Get an Identity Protection PIN; IRS: How to know it's the IRS