Because cybercriminals are stepping up their attacks on tax professionals, the IRS urges tax preparers to take steps to protect client data and their computer networks.
Thieves search for client data so they can create a fraudulent tax return that looks legitimate and might bypass IRS filters. They also impersonate tax professionals, using stolen Electronic Filing Identification Numbers, Preparer Tax Identification Numbers and Centralized Authorization File numbers.
Tax practitioners can take basic security steps to protect themselves and their clients.