Each year, cybercriminals become more creative and persistent in ways to commit identity theft and tax fraud. During tax season, taxpayers enter a vast amount of personal and financial information online, creating opportunities for cybercriminals trying to steal that information.

Tax-related identify theft is the most common type of identity theft, so it’s important to be extra cautious where and to whom we provide our personal information.

Follow the three tips below to help protect yourself this tax season.

1. Protect Your Identity.
   You should always be careful where you enter or store personal information on your electronic devices, but it’s extra critical to do so during tax season.
2. Beware of Tax-Related Scams.
   Criminals will go to extreme lengths to trick you into either giving up information so they can file fraudulent taxes or make you believe you owe the IRS. This may come in the form of phishing, phone scams, identity theft or other methods. Scroll through the slides below to learn about common tax season cybercrime schemes.
3. Recognize and Report Scams.
   Being alert and identifying fraudulent activity is crucial in protecting yourself and your information. The IRS encourages reporting if you receive tax-related phishing or other scams. Reporting this activity can help hundreds of other people from becoming a victim. Please visit IRS: Report Phishing and Online Scams to learn how to report suspicious activity you encounter this tax season.

Knowledge and awareness are powerful defenses against cybercrime. For more fraud prevention tips and information, visit Regions’ Fraud Prevention Resources.