Bay Breeze Point

The IRS has issued a notice regarding “identity theft” and criminals applying for individual tax returns. Basically, criminals are filing phony tax returns using individuals’ identity information and collecting tax refunds. These same criminals, using that information, can also establish new lines of credit, commit medical identify theft, and take over financial accounts. Now, the bad news, you can’t prevent tax related identity theft — we’re all vulnerable, but we can reduce the risk: 1) if you file your tax return by mail — use the post office not an unsecure mailbox; 2) if you file your tax return electronically — use secure computer and network; 3) and, most importantly, file your tax return as soon as possible. If you suspect someone is using your identity to obtain access to your tax returns, etc. — notify the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit @ 1-800-908-4490 ext 245.