2020 – 08/13 You’ve probably heard of a scam called ransomware. The IRS describes it as an invasive software that targets “human and technical weakness to infect a potential victim’s computer, network or server.” It may be downloaded accidently by opening a link or attachment, such as an email solicitation for a fake COVID-19 charity. Once infected, ransomware looks for and locks up critical or sensitive data and can bring your computer to a halt. That’s why the IRS has included this cybercrime on the 2020 list of worst scams, called the “Dirty Dozen.” The IRS advises taxpayers to use multi-factor authentication to protect yourself from data theft. For more information: https://bit.ly/30xln2p
Similar Posts
Rightsizing your sales force
2020 – 12/16 With a difficult year almost over, and another one on the horizon, now may be a good time to assess the size of your sales force. Maybe the economic changes triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic led you to downsize earlier in the year. Or perhaps you’ve added to your sales team to…
Steps to ensure your data remains private
2019 – 02/22 Criminals continue to steal large amounts of information from taxpayers. Thieves use the data to file bogus tax returns and commit crimes while impersonating victims. The IRS lists several steps to take to ensure your data remains private, beginning with enhancing computer security. Use updated software, a firewall, virus and malware protection…
The IRS just launched Identity Theft Central
2020 – 02/04 It’s tax season and with it comes the risk of identity theft. As taxpayers focus on filing their returns, cybercriminals are focused on stealing their personal identifying information. That’s why the IRS just launched Identity Theft Central, with online access to information about identity theft and data security for taxpayers, tax pros,…
PPP Loan Forgiveness
2020 – 08/27 by Lori Eads, CPA We know many of you who received Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) are anxious to apply for forgiveness! However, as we learned during the application process, it can be helpful to be patient and wait for final guidance before…
IRS Deadlines Postponed
2020 – 06/01 The IRS has postponed deadlines for time-sensitive actions with respect to certain employment taxes, employee benefit plans, exempt organizations, IRAs, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Coverdell education savings accounts due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Some of the tax deadlines extended to July 15, 2020, include employers correcting employment tax underpayments or…
Deducting Business Meals
2021 – 01/11 The Consolidated Appropriations Act includes a provision that removes the 50% limit on deducting eligible business meals in 2021 and 2022. In general, the ordinary and necessary food and beverage expenses of operating a business are deductible. The new law allows a 100% deduction for these expenses for food or beverages provided…