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/ Get to Know Us / News / What's Happening / Seven Tips to Frustrate a Fraudster During Tax Season

Seven Tips to Frustrate a Fraudster During Tax Season

March 31, 2015

NORWAY, ME– The weeks leading up to April 15th– tax deadline day – are often vulnerable ones for consumers, as W-2s and tax returns containing their personal information circulate over the internet and through the mail.

According to a Javelin Strategy and Research study, 12.7 million Americans were victims of identity fraud in 2014. Though down from 2013, it remains the Federal Trade Commission’s number-one consumer complaint.

“Identity thieves look for every opportunity to steal your information, especially during tax season,” said Ann Brett, Senior Vice President, Chief Technology Officer, Norway Savings Bank. “Consumers should be on high alert and take every step they can to protect their personal and financial information.”

To help consumers do that, Norway Savings Bank is offering the following tips:

  • Don’t share your secrets. Don’t provide your Social Security number or bank account information to anyone who contacts you online or over the phone. Neither your bank nor the IRS will contact you requesting this information.
  • Beware of phishing emails. Phishing attacks occur when criminals use ‘spoofed’ emails and fake websites of trusted organizations to coerce consumers into sharing personal information. During tax season, fraudsters often pose as the IRS. Don’t be fooled. The IRS will never initiate taxpayer contact via unsolicited email to request personal or financial data.
  • Shred sensitive papers. Shred receipts, banks statements and unused credit card offers before throwing them away. For papers you must keep, like tax documents, keep them in a secure place.
  • Keep an eye out for missing mail. Fraudsters look for monthly credit card statements, W-2s, tax refunds or other mail containing your financial information. If you don’t receive your W-2s, and your employer indicates they’ve been mailed, or it looks like it has been previously opened upon delivery, contact the IRS immediately.
  • Protect your computer. Make sure the virus protection software on your computer is active and up to date, particularly if you plan to file your taxes online. When conducting business online, make sure your browser’s padlock or key icon is active. Also look for an “s” after the “http” to be sure the website is secure.
  • Use online banking to protect yourself. Monitor your financial accounts regularly for fraudulent transactions. Sign up for text or email alerts from your bank for certain types of transactions, such as online purchases or transactions of more than $500.
  • Report any suspected fraud to your bank immediately. Additionally, if the IRS denies your tax return because one has previously been filed under your name, alert the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 1.800.908.4490.

 

About Norway Savings Bank

Founded in 1866, Norway Savings Bank is a leading mutual banking and financial services company headquartered in Norway, Maine. As of December 31, 2014, Norway Savings Bank had $997 million in total assets and provided financial services to over 38 thousand households throughout western and southern Maine. Norway Savings Bank has 24 branch locations and operates divisions in asset management, personal banking and business banking. In December 2014, BauerFinancial, Inc., the nation’s leading bank rating and research firm, honored Norway Savings Bank with its highest 5-Star rating for the last 100 consecutive quarters. In 2007 and 2008, Norway Savings Bank was recognized as one of the Best Places to Work in Maine by the Society for Human Resource Management’s Maine State Council. Norway earned the Financial Marketing Excellence Award from the American Bankers Association for its “Colorful Solutions” brand campaign in 2009. Most recently, Norway Savings Bank was awarded the 2013 Governor’s Award for Business Excellence, recognized as one of the 2013 Best Banks to Work For by American Banker and Best Companies Group, and distinguished as a Gold-Level Well Workplace by the Wellness Council of America (WELCOA). Norway also received the Gold-Level Well Workplace award from WELCOA in 2011. This award distinguishes Norway Savings Bank as one of the healthiest companies in America. For more information, visit www.norwaysavingsbank.com.

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