Federal Trade Commission: Tax Related Identity Theft 2014

FTC: Tax Related Identity Theft

 

The IRS uses your Social Security Number (SSN) to make sure your filing is accurate and complete, and that you get any refund you are due. Identity theft can affect how your tax return is processed. An unexpected notice or letter from the IRS could alert you that someone else is using your S.S.N.; however, the IRS doesn't start contact with a taxpayer by sending an email, text or social media message that asks for personal or financial information.

 

If you get an email that claims to be from the IRS, do not reply or click on any links, forward it to phishing@irs.gov. For more details on what to do if you are a victim click on the link below.

FTC - Tax Related ID Theft

Better Business Bureau: 3/7/ 14 - Voucher Scam Tricks Verizon Wireless Customers

Using Caller ID spoofing technology and a look alike website, scammers are posing as Verizon Wireless and conning victims into sharing personal information.

  

How the Scam Works:   

 

You receive a call that appears to come from "Technical Support" and claims to be Verizon Wireless. It is a recorded message saying you are eligible to receive a voucher for your account. You need to visit a website to claim it. The web address given contains "Verizon" and the value of the voucher. One recent version of the scam used "verizon54.com," but watch for variations.

 

You go to the website, and it looks official. It has the Verizon Wireless colors, graphics and navigation (see screen shot below). The site prompts you to "Verify My Account" by entering your cellphone number, Verizon ID and password and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Enter your info, and you won't receive a voucher. You will, however, open yourself up to the risk of identity theft.

 

 

 

 

Verizon Security alerts

National Consumer Protection Week March 2-8, 2014

March 2-8, 2014, marks the 16th annual National Consumer Protection Week. The Federal Trade Commission stands with 74 federal, state and local agencies and organizations to stand up for consumers by highlighting the very best in consumer education resources.

The NCPW site offers practical and timely information to help you recognize and report scams; manage debt; use technology wisely; evaluate products and services; fight identity theft; and see the truth behind advertising claims. 

For more details and free resources for your community click on the link below.

National Consumer Protection Week 2014