If you have ever used the IRS’s Get Transcript website to access your old tax returns, your personal information may have fallen into the hands of hackers.
From February to May, Russian hackers used information obtained from another third-party site to steal past transcripts and file fraudulent returns under the names of taxpayers. Hackers used sensitive information to authenticate for each user, including Social Security number, marital status, address, and date of birth. They were also able to answer the security questions provided by the IRS based on information only the individual is supposed to know, like loan details and former phone numbers.
More than 100,000 personal records were affected. The IRS is offering free credit monitoring to those impacted. You will be notified if you were impacted by the breach.
However, this is a good time to remember to change your passwords regularly and be careful where you share personal information.
By Prasana William