How to Avoid Phishing Scams as We Approach this Year’s Tax Deadline
Taxpayers throughout the country are prepared to file their taxes as the deadline approaches. However, in the thick of the hustle and frenzy of tax preparations, fraudsters are also preparing to take advantage of this advantageous time with phishing attacks. Phishing attempts are becoming more common and advanced, seeking to steal sensitive personal and financial information from unwary users. As the tax deadline approaches this year, it is critical that we prepare ourselves with knowledge and alertness to prevent falling prey to these malevolent scams.
The Dangers of Emotet Malware
Emotet is a modular Trojan that may collect sensitive data from infected systems, deploy more malware, and avoid detection by security tools. The fake W-9 IRS tax form fraud is one of the most recent strategies employed by cybercriminals to distribute Emotet. This fraud involves sending an email with a bogus W-9 form attached, prompting the victim to activate macros in order to access the form’s contents. When a user permits macros, malware is downloaded onto their PC.
In addition to phishing emails and tax frauds, Emotet can be transmitted via exploit kits that exploit vulnerabilities in unpatched software. Malicious websites, malvertising (malicious advertising), and compromised web servers can all be used to deploy exploit kits. When a user visits a website that hosts an exploit kit, the exploit kit automatically scans their system for vulnerabilities and deploys malware if one is discovered.
The malware is highly advanced and can swiftly adapt to different surroundings. It is also capable of communicating with its command and control servers in order to acquire fresh orders and updates. Because Emotet malware is modular, criminals can add new capabilities and features to the infection to meet their demands.
How to Protect Against Tax Scams
By following these guidelines, you can safeguard your sensitive information and ensure a secure tax filing experience.
- Recognize Phishing Scams
The first step in avoiding phishing scams is to understand how they work. Phishing scams frequently involve fake emails, text messages, or phone calls impersonating legitimate organisations such as the IRS or tax software companies. Urgent requests for personal information, such as Social Security numbers, bank account information, or passwords, are common in these communications. Be suspicious of unsolicited communication, spelling and grammatical faults, and calls for fast action. Legitimate organisations will never request critical information by email or text message.
- Be Cautious of Clicking Links
Phishing emails frequently contain harmful links that take you to fake websites aimed to steal your personal information. Never click on strange links in emails or texts, especially if they come from unknown or untrusted sources, to avoid falling into this trap. Instead, manually enter the organization’s website address or use a bookmarked link. Check that the URL starts with “https” and includes a padlock icon, indicating that it is a secure connection.
- Strengthen Password Security
It is vital to create secure and unique passwords in order to protect your sensitive data. When possible, use two-factor authentication (2FA) to add an extra degree of security. Be wary of any emails or messages that request your passwords or login details. Legitimate organisations will never ask for this information via email or text message.
- Keep Software Updated
Updating your software on a regular basis, including operating systems, web browsers, and antivirus software, is crucial for defending against potential vulnerabilities. Security patches that address known vulnerabilities exploited by cybercriminals are frequently included in updates. Allow automatic updates to ensure that you are always running the most recent and secure versions of your software.
- Educate Yourself and Stay Informed
To protect oneself from potential threats, it is vital to stay up to date on the latest phishing strategies and schemes. Maintain an up-to-date knowledge of news and information from trusted sources, such as the IRS website or recognised cybersecurity organisations. Learn to recognise common phishing red flags, such as urgent requests for personal information or unexpected emails claiming to be from the IRS. Share this information with your friends, family, and coworkers to create an awareness and support network.
- Report Suspicious Activity
If you stumble across a phishing scam or feel you have been targeted, please report it as soon as possible. If you receive an unusual email purporting to be from the IRS, contact them directly.
Conclusion
As the tax filing deadline approaches, criminals will continue to take advantage of the increased concern surrounding tax files. You may protect yourself from phishing scams by remaining watchful, recognising phishing schemes, being wary of clicking links, enhancing password security, keeping software updated, staying informed, and swiftly reporting suspicious behaviour. Remember that the IRS would never solicit personal information by email, so be wary of any communication claiming to be from them. You can ensure a secure and successful tax filing experience by being proactive and educated.
