Keep Your Identity And Refund Safe This Tax Season

(UNDATED) – Tax season has begun – as you prepare to submit your tax return, remember fraudsters are also preparing to steal your information.


Tax season is the time for thieves to steal taxpayer identities, file fraudulent tax returns and then steal those refunds. Make sure you don’t fall prey to their scams. A few tips to make sure your information stays secure:

  • Be sure to store your personal information in a secure location.
  • If you are entering information online, make sure it is a protected site.
  • If you choose to use a tax preparer, be sure they’re trustworthy.
  • Do not carry your social security card with you.
  • Shred any documents that are not needed.
  • If you are entering information online, make sure it is a protected site.
  • Protect your computer by using firewalls, anti-spam/virus software, update security patches and change passwords regularly for Internet accounts.
  • Do not give out personal information over the phone, through the mail or on the Internet unless you are sure you know whom you’re dealing with.

DOR is also working to ensure your refund gets to you and not a fraudster. DOR’s Identity Protection Program protects Hoosier taxpayer’s identities and refunds. The program includes an Identity Confirmation quiz that individuals may be selected for. The quiz doesn’t take long and asks specific questions only you will know.
If you’re selected to complete the Identity Confirmation Quiz, you’ll receive a letter from DOR. First make sure the name and address information matches an Indiana income tax return you recently filed. Then, either go through DOR’s secure website or call in to take the quiz.
The Identity Protection Program has already stopped more than $110 million in fraudulent refund attempts since its inception.
To learn more check out our Stop ID Theft website.

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