protection – Debra Newby Watkins CPA

IRS Offers Extra Level of Security with IP PIN

The IRS is offering consumers another way to help protect themselves against fraudulent tax claims and those hoping to steal refund checks. With the IP PIN program, taxpayers may apply for a special code to add second level security to their account. The IP PIN is available to anyone with a SSN or an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). To apply, complete the process below:

The IP PIN process
Here’s how the IP PIN process works:

Taxpayers wanting to get an IP PIN should go to IRS.gov/ippin.
Once an individual creates an account and completes the prompted steps the IP PIN will be revealed to them.
Taxpayers should keep in mind that the IP PIN is only valid for one calendar year. Participating taxpayers must acquire a newly generated IP PIN each January.

Read the full article here: National Tax Security Awareness Week, Day 3: IRS Identity Protection PIN can help avoid fraud and tax-related identity theft

Talk, Talk

Every been tempted to confide in one of your team members about a work issue, or felt it necessary to share the personal problems of another employee with the group? According to Liz Ryan for Forbes, this is never a good idea. Ten Things to Never, Ever Tell Your Employees offers a straightforward look at best practices for management and communication in the workplace. Everyone is human, but when functioning as a manager, it’s important to remember that guarding yourself and your employees should be your first priority.

DIY Just Got A Whole New Meaning

The world of credit card fraud is big business and with “buyers” willing to pay fifty plus dollars per card number, why would the cyber thieves want to stop? The industry has grown in such mega-proportions, taking down large retailers like the Target. But the Target breech of last December, which was detected in three weeks, has nothing on the current scheme that is being linked to Home Depot and may have been happening since April. One of the nations largest do-it-yourself retailers obviously needs some better ‘tools’ for protection.

Path of Stolen Credit Cards Leads Back to Home Depot Stores