SHREVEPORT, LA – The weeks leading up to April 15 – tax deadline day – are often vulnerable ones for consumers, as W-2s and tax returns containing their personal information circulate over the internet and through the mail.
According to a Javelin Strategy and Research study, 12.7 million Americans were victims of identity fraud in 2014. Though down from 2013, it remains the Federal Trade Commission’s top consumer complaint.
“Consumers should always take every step they can to protect their personal and financial information, and especially during tax season, consumers should be on high alert,” said Jim Barlow, president and CEO
of Home Federal Bank. “We hope we can help local consumers in protecting their information.”
To do so, Home Federal Bank is offering the following tips:
Don’t share your secrets. Don’t provide your Social Security number or bank account information to anyone who contacts you online or over the phone. Neither your bank nor the IRS will contact you requesting this information.
Beware of phishing emails. Phishing attacks occur when criminals use ‘spoofed’ emails and fake websites of trusted organizations to coerce consumers into sharing personal information. During tax season, fraudsters often pose as the IRS. Don’t be fooled. The IRS will never initiate taxpayer contact via unsolicited email to request personal or financial data.
Shred sensitive papers. Shred receipts, banks statements and unused credit card offers before throwing them away. For papers you must keep, like tax documents, keep them in a secure place.
Keep an eye out for missing mail. Fraudsters look for monthly credit card statements, W-2s, tax refunds or other mail containing your financial information. If you don’t receive your W-2s, and your employer indicates they’ve been mailed, or it looks like it has been previously opened upon delivery, contact the IRS immediately.
Protect your computer. Make sure the virus protection software on your computer is active and up to date, particularly if you plan to file your taxes online. When conducting business online, make sure your browser’s padlock or key icon is active. Also look for an “s” after the “http” to be sure the website is secure.
Use online banking to protect yourself. Monitor your financial accounts regularly for fraudulent transactions. Sign up for text or email alerts from your bank for certain types of transactions, such as online purchases or transactions of more than $500.
Report any suspected fraud to your bank immediately. Additionally, if the IRS denies your tax return because one has previously been filed under your name, alert theIRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 1-800-908-4490.
Home Federal Bank values the security of your accounts and your identity. Whether it's online, on the phone, or in person, we do everything we can to make banking safer and more secure. Call 318-222-1145 or visit hflbla.com/privacy-security for more information.
Home Federal Bancorp, Inc. of Louisiana is the holding company for Home Federal Bank which conducts business from its five full-service banking offices and one commercial lending agency office in northwest Louisiana. HFB is a full-service community bank committed to providing an unparalleled level of personal service while helping customers meet all their financial needs. Additional information is available at www.hfbla.com
-end-
Released by: Emily T. Price, Assistant VP / Home Federal / 318.841.5394 / emily.price@hfbla.com
