In Part 2 of our series on protecting your income tax refund from being hacked or scammed, we’ll focus on staying informed about new tax laws and ensuring your devices are secure.
**Staying Informed on New Tax Laws**
1. **Subscribe to Trusted Newsletters**: Join mailing lists from credible sources like the IRS, major financial news websites, or tax advisory companies. They often provide updates on new tax regulations and relevant deadlines.
2. **Follow Reputable Tax Advisors**: Social media platforms and blogs are valuable resources. Follow well-known tax advisors or organizations on platforms like LinkedIn, X, or professional blogs to receive real-time updates and expert analyses.
3. **Attend Webinars and Workshops**: Keep an eye out for webinars or workshops offered by financial institutions or tax software companies. These sessions are usually led by experts and can help you navigate changes in tax laws effectively.
4. **Utilize IRS Resources**: The IRS website offers a wealth of information. Regularly check their "News" section or subscribe to their e-newsletters to get updates straight from the source.
**Using Secure Devices**
1. **Update Your Software Regularly**: Ensure that your device’s operating system and all software, especially your web browsers and security software, are updated. Software updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities.
2. **Use Strong, Unique Passwords**: Utilize a password manager to create and manage strong, unique passwords for each of your financial accounts. Consider using multi-factor authentication for an added layer of security.
3. **Install Security Software**: Invest in reputable antivirus and anti-malware software to protect against malicious attacks. Make sure it is set to update automatically for the latest protection.
4. **Secure Your Network**: Use a secure and private home network. Change default passwords on routers and enable strong encryption settings. Avoid accessing sensitive information on public Wi-Fi networks.
5. **Be Wary of Phishing Scams**: Always verify the email addresses of senders and be cautious of links or attachments in unsolicited emails. Scammers often try to impersonate legitimate organizations like the IRS.
By staying informed and ensuring your devices are secure, you can significantly reduce the risk of your income tax refund being targeted by hackers or scammers. Stay tuned for the next part of our series!
Feel free to share your thoughts or any questions, !
As always, if you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to me! Be sure to visit my website at www.savvystunner.com to stay up do date on all things safety!
Be Safe, Be Savvvy and Be Stunning! Lisa
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