BECKLEY, WV (WVNS) — As if filing taxes isn’t stressful enough, U.S. Internal Revenue Service officials warn that fraudsters look for victims on during tax filing time.
IRS specialists reported on Thursday, February 1, 2024, that con artists pretend to be tax professionals in order to steal personal identities of tax filers.
They use the information to run up credit in the taxpayer’s name.
Don Boykin, supervisory specialist with the IRS Criminal Investigation Unit, urged West Virginians to take steps to protect themselves.
“You want to make sure you’re using credible websites, if you do something online,” said Boykin.
“Make sure you have multi-factor identification whenever possible to make it harder for them to access your information. Avoid things like public Wi-Fi.”
Those who suspect tax fraud may report it on the IRS website.