The IRS offers tips to tax preparers to protect their clients' information. The agency is working with its Security Summit partners on an effort called "Protect Your Clients; Protect Yourself: Tax Security 101." For more information, go to https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/protect-your-clients-protect-yourself-tax-security-101.
The guide outlines ways tax preparers can protect client data.
Tax preparers should:
- Learn how to recognize phishing emails. Scammers often send emails that appear from the IRS or software providers. Don't open links in suspicious emails.
- Build a data security plan. The IRS provides helpful guides. Go to https://nvlpubs.nist.gov/nistpubs/ir/2016/NIST.IR.7621r1.pdf.
- Preparers should review their businesses' internal processes and:
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- Install anti-malware and anti-virus security software.
- Develop longer, more complex passwords.
- Encrypt sensitive files and emails.
- Back up sensitive data to safe, secure external sources.
- Restrict data access only to employees who are directly involved in preparations.
* This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. We suggest you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax advisor.
Tip adapted from IRS.gov[11]
[11] www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-security-101-tax-preparers-should-take-these-steps-to-protect-data
