IRS Warns of Remote Control Attacks on Tax Preparer Computers

The Internal Revenue Service is warning tax professionals that identity thieves are trying to remotely take control over their computers to file fraudulent tax returns using the names and IDs of their clients.

The IRS urged tax preparers Fridays to double-check the settings on their tax prep software and enable all security measures to safeguard their clients’ information. They should pay particular attention to any usernames and passwords for accessing their tax software. The IRS said it is aware of approximately two dozen cases in recent days where tax professionals have been victimized.

The IRS has been working with state tax authorities and the tax industry on an initiative called the Security Summit to combat identity theft. Together they recently launched the Protect Your Clients; Protect Yourself campaign to raise awareness of criminals targeting tax professionals and their clients’ information.

“This latest incident reinforces the need for all tax professionals to review their computer settings as soon as possible,” said IRS Commissioner John Koskinen‎ in a statement. “Identity thieves continue to evolve and look for new areas to exploit‎, especially as our fraud filters become more effective. The prompt identification of these attacks is another example of the great benefits that result from the close‎ working relationship the IRS now has with the tax industry and the states through the Security Summit initiative. Information is flowing more rapidly between our groups as we continue‎ our efforts to protect taxpayers.”

Koskinen recently recorded a video that the IRS posted on YouTube this week urging tax professionals to take precautions to safeguard their cybersecurity.