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Dear
Heidi,
In the field of computer security, phishing
(not to be confused with fishing), is the criminally fraudulent
process of attempting to acquire sensitive information such as
usernames, passwords and credit card details by masquerading as a
trustworthy entity.
We have heard that some of our clients have received emails
from a source that appears to be the IRS, asking for sensitive
information. Please follow these guidelines:
- The
IRS would NEVER contact you by email
- The
IRS would NEVER ask you for usernames, passwords or financial
information of any kind.
- The
IRS WILL send you a letter by US Mail.
- The
IRS WILL visit your place of business without an
appointment.
Sincerely,
Heidi Wisneski, Adm. Assistant
C&L Value Advisors LLC
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If
you receive an email from someone claiming to be the IRS or directing
you to an IRS site,
- Do not
reply.
- Do not
open attachments.
- Do not
click on any links.
Forward the email or website URL to phishing@irs.gov
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Reporting
Indentity Theft
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If
you are a victim of identity theft and your social security number is
being used by someone else to report income, go to the IRS.gov
website and download an IRS Identity Theft Affidavit - Form
14039. You will also find information on the IRS Identity Protection
Specialized Unit. Search for Identity
Theft from the IRS.gov site.
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Identity Theft
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Your Social Security
Number could be used by another individual to get a job. That
person's employer would report income earned to the IRS using your
Social Security Number, making it appear that you did not report all
of your income on your tax return.
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