41°
Cyber-security expert Brian Krebs said the best way to avoid becoming a victim of tax refund fraud is to file your taxes before the fraudsters can. Krebs said people should file taxes at the state and federal level as quickly as possible.
Other tips include:
- Get on a schedule to request a free copy of your credit report. By law, consumers are entitled to a free copy of their report from each of the major bureaus once a year. Put it on your calendar to request a copy of your file every three to four months, each time from a different credit bureau. Dispute any unauthorized or suspicious activity.
- Monitor, then freeze. Take advantage of any free credit monitoring available to you, and then freeze your credit file with the four major bureaus. A freeze can help you stop ID thieves from opening new lines of credit in your name.
- File form 14039 and request an IP PIN from the government. This form requires consumers to state they believe they’re likely to be victims of identity fraud. Even if thieves haven’t tried to file your taxes for you yet, virtually all Americans have been touched by incidents that could lead to ID theft.
If you have been a victim of fraud please contact the Stamford Police Department at (203) 977-4444.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Stamford and receive free news updates.
