Tax season is a hacker’s holiday
It’s tax time again and faculty, staff and patients are all prime targets for identity theft. That's why it's important to stay alert!
In recent years, Michigan Medicine staff members have had fraudulent tax returns filed in their name, and although U-M was not implicated as the source for these tax incidents, this type of fraud is increasing. Here are things you need to know to stay safe this tax season:
Be on the lookout
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Phishing emails
Scammers regularly send phishing emails warning of a problem with your tax filing or refund. Over the past few years, several colleagues have responded to phishing messages and had their personal information compromised. Don’t fall for it.
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Threatening phone calls
Scammers also call victims claiming to be IRS employees and demand payment. Please be advised: The IRS will never call to demand immediate payment, ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone, or threaten to bring in law-enforcement groups to have you arrested for not paying.
Protect yourself
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Turn on two-factor for access to your W-2
?By turning on two-factor for Weblogin you are adding an extra layer of protection to your personal information including your W-2s and direct deposit information.
Have you been a victim?
If you believe you have been the victim of a fraudulent tax filing, take these steps immediately:
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Contact the Michigan Department of Treasury Identity Theft Unit
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Place a freeze on your credit report with all three credit bureaus
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File a report with your local police department
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Notify your supervisor immediately
Want more information?
See these five tips to avoid online tax fraud provided on the U-M ITS Safe Computing website.
