Top 5 Data Security Tips for eFiling Your Taxes

1. Only use reputable tax software.

Know exactly who you are dealing with. The IRS has a program called Free File that uses brand-name software produced by companies who make their products available through the IRS.

Watch out for fake tax filing websites that exist solely to harvest your sensitive, personal information.

2. Be on the lookout for phishing scams.

Online scammers are extremely professional in what they do best – scam others. Be sure to delete all emails that claim to be from the IRS or your bank, even if they look legit. Don’t be fooled by a scammer’s tactic of producing pixel-perfect copies of official emails. And, do not click on any links within the email.

Contact your bank to verify that a specific email is indeed from the institution.

3. When using your computer to prepare your taxes, be sure to secure your data as well as your network.

Before preparing your taxes, make sure you have installed and activated the most up-to-date anti-malware software, and access your local network to make sure there are no unauthorized network shares.

Also, be sure to enable WPA on your wireless router because WEP can be easily hacked.




4. Put up a good fight against cyber intruders by updating your security.
  • Upgrade your security software;
  • Update malware definitions;
  • Apply all patches; and
  • Keep plug-ins fresh, especially from Java and Adobe.
5. Be sure to backup your data.

Consider the following secure backup ideas:

  • Flash drive – lock in a safety deposit box.

  • Cloud network

  • Local network storage

Top Tip: Whatever electronic device you use to file your taxes, (iPhone, Android, lap top, iPad, desktop computer, etc.) make sure to effectively delete all data when replacing it with a new device, in the event sensitive data is stored or hidden somewhere on it.

For more tax tips for 2013, please visit “Tax Tips for 2013 from the IRS.”

Featured

  • Making the Grade with Locks and Door Hardware

    Managing and maintaining locks and door hardware across a school district or university campus is a big responsibility. A building’s security needs to change over time as occupancy and use demands evolve, which can make it even more challenging. Knowing the basics of common door hardware, including locks, panic devices and door closers, can make a difference in daily operations and emergency situations. Read Now

  • Choosing the Right Solution

    Today, there is a strong shift from on-prem installations to cloud or hybrid-cloud deployments. As reported in the 2024 Genetec State of Physical Security report, 66% of end users said they will move to managing or storing more physical security in the cloud over the next two years. Read Now

  • New Report Reveals Top Security Risks for U.S. Retail Chains

    Interface Systems, a provider of security, actionable insights, and purpose-built networks for multi-location businesses, has released its 2024 State of Remote Video Monitoring in Retail Chains report. The detailed study analyzed over 2 million monitoring requests across 4,156 retail locations in the United States from September 2023 to August 2024. Read Now

  • Gaining a Competitive Edge

    Ask most companies about their future technology plans and the answers will most likely include AI. Then ask how they plan to deploy it, and that is where the responses may start to vary. Every company has unique surveillance requirements that are based on market focus, scale, scope, risk tolerance, geographic area and, of course, budget. Those factors all play a role in deciding how to configure a surveillance system, and how to effectively implement technologies like AI. Read Now

Featured Cybersecurity

Webinars

New Products

  • Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems, an industry-leading manufacturer of pedestrian and vehicle secure entrance control access systems, is pleased to announce the release of its groundbreaking V07 software. The V07 software update is designed specifically to address cybersecurity concerns and will ensure the integrity and confidentiality of Automatic Systems applications. With the new V07 software, updates will be delivered by means of an encrypted file. 3

  • Camden CM-221 Series Switches

    Camden CM-221 Series Switches

    Camden Door Controls is pleased to announce that, in response to soaring customer demand, it has expanded its range of ValueWave™ no-touch switches to include a narrow (slimline) version with manual override. This override button is designed to provide additional assurance that the request to exit switch will open a door, even if the no-touch sensor fails to operate. This new slimline switch also features a heavy gauge stainless steel faceplate, a red/green illuminated light ring, and is IP65 rated, making it ideal for indoor or outdoor use as part of an automatic door or access control system. ValueWave™ no-touch switches are designed for easy installation and trouble-free service in high traffic applications. In addition to this narrow version, the CM-221 & CM-222 Series switches are available in a range of other models with single and double gang heavy-gauge stainless steel faceplates and include illuminated light rings. 3

  • Mobile Safe Shield

    Mobile Safe Shield

    SafeWood Designs, Inc., a manufacturer of patented bullet resistant products, is excited to announce the launch of the Mobile Safe Shield. The Mobile Safe Shield is a moveable bullet resistant shield that provides protection in the event of an assailant and supplies cover in the event of an active shooter. With a heavy-duty steel frame, quality castor wheels, and bullet resistant core, the Mobile Safe Shield is a perfect addition to any guard station, security desks, courthouses, police stations, schools, office spaces and more. The Mobile Safe Shield is incredibly customizable. Bullet resistant materials are available in UL 752 Levels 1 through 8 and include glass, white board, tack board, veneer, and plastic laminate. Flexibility in bullet resistant materials allows for the Mobile Safe Shield to blend more with current interior décor for a seamless design aesthetic. Optional custom paint colors are also available for the steel frame. 3