The IRS is working with state revenue departments to make sure consumers understand potential dangers to personal and financial information. Publication 4524 provides the following tips for keeping computers secure:
- Use security software and make sure it updates automatically. Tools include:
- Firewall
- Virus/malware protection
- File encryption for sensitive data
- Treat your personal information like cash, don’t leave it lying around
- Review companies to find out who you’re really dealing with
- Give personal information only over encrypted websites – look for “https” addresses
- Use strong passwords and protect them
- Back up your files
They also advise to avoid phishing emails that seem to be from the IRS. The IRS publication can be accessed by clicking here.