Empower Members With Tax Season Security Secrets

In order for thieves to be successful, they must first gain access to a taxpayer’s personal data, including their Social Security number, date of birth or account number. With this information, thieves can open fraudulent credit card accounts or charge existing accounts, obtain loans or jobs, and even receive tax refund payments from the IRS.

The IRS uses taxpayers’ Social Security numbers to ensure that filings are accurate and complete prior to issuing a refund. This fact makes Social Security numbers highly desirable to identity thieves attempting to fraudulently obtain others’ tax refunds. One of the most common mistakes made by taxpayers is simply carrying their Social Security card in their purse or wallet. Credit unions should encourage members to leave their Social Security cards in a safe place at all times. Additionally, members should be instructed to zealously guard their Social Security number and not provide it every time they are prompted.