IRS News Release: Tell-Tale Identity Theft Signs Tax Professionals Should Watch For (IRC §7207)

Rejection of an e-filed return because the client’s Social Security number was already used on another return, more e-file acknowledgments than returns filed, client responses to messages never sent, and unexpected technical issues such as getting locked out of a computer or network are among the critical indications that sensitive information may have been stolen from a tax professional, the IRS announced as part of its “Protect Your Clients, Protect Yourself” campaign with Security Summit partners. Further warning signs are when a client reports having received an IRS authentication letter or a refund without having filed a return; a tax ...