How can taxpayers reduce identity theft risk during the filing season?

• A. File early
• B. Use secure portals, file early, monitor notices, and be cautious with personal data and communications
• C. Postpone filing until risk passes
• D. Ignore notices to avoid panic

Answer: (B)

Protecting personal information during filing season comes down to using secure channels, filing early to outpace fraudsters, staying vigilant for IRS notices, and treating personal data with caution. Filing electronically through a secure portal with strong login credentials and two-factor authentication reduces exposure of sensitive data and lowers the chance a thief can intercept your information. Filing early helps ensure your legitimate return is processed before a fraudulent one can be submitted in your name. Keeping an eye on IRS notices and other tax communications lets you detect suspicious activity quickly, such as a notice about a return already filed or mismatches in your account, so you can respond promptly. And being cautious with personal data and communications means not sharing your SSN or tax details through unsecured emails or texts, verifying the sender's identity, avoiding phishing attempts, and using secure devices and networks. Together, these steps create layered protection that lowers your risk during tax filing season.