Online Security Review Steps to Protect Yourself from Tax Identity Fraud

By William F. Whelan, guest columnist and Senior VP, Branch/Government Banking, Capital Bank.

As the 2017 tax season gets underway, Capital Bank of New Jersey is urging all customers to take extra precaution when filing their return to prevent their exposure to tax fraud.

“Fraudsters are using very clever tactics to get a hold of your personal information and submit false tax claims,” said David J. Hanrahan, Sr., President and CEO. “Consumers must be suspicious of any communication from the IRS—through e-mail, text or social media—that requests personal information, and should keep a watchful eye out for missing W-2s and mail containing sensitive financial information.”

Tax identity fraud takes place when a criminal files a false tax return using a stolen Social Security number in order to fraudulently claim the refund. Identity thieves generally file false claims early in the year and victims are unaware until they file a return and learn one has already been filed..