Equip Yourself Against Scammers

You have likely read articles about scam victims and the devastating effects they can have on hard-working people. To add to it, it’s tax season, and for scammers it means millions of taxpayers they can potentially dupe out of refunds or scare into making irrational moves. 

Being aware and informed of common scammer techniques can help prevent you from becoming a victim!

Scammers commonly target victims through fake emails, text messages, social media accounts, phone calls, and spoofed caller ID’s. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to limit your vulnerability to tax return scams. Here’s how to keep your money and your information safe this tax season:

• File early. This gives scammers less time to use stolen information.
• E-file with care. Only use a secure computer to file an electronic tax return, not a public Wi-Fi.
• Keep your tax returns in a secure location. Remove your returns from your computer after you’ve filed, and store hard copies of all tax forms in a safe place. 
• Never download links or attachments from unverified sources. These may contain malware, which can infect your computer and deliver your information right to the scammer.
• Never share personal information with an unknown contact over the phone or online. Personal information should always be kept personal.
  
  

You can verify any IRS correspondence by calling 1-800-829-1040. Emails allegedly sent by the IRS are scams, as the IRS does not reach out to taxpayers via email.

Remember, Azura Credit Union will never text, email, or call you requesting information from you such as card numbers or online banking credentials. Never provide your personal account, card, or online banking information to anyone.