Tax Day is just about here and many Americans are scrambling to file their taxes.  According to Internet News, 87 million tax returns were filed electronically in 2008. This means a lot of extra personal information is circulating on the internet for thieves to get their dirty paws on.

Data thieves used to be interested in credit card numbers, however with all the added security a credit card has, there is now not much use for just a card number. Therefore, things such as tax returns are very attractive because they contain everything from banking information to personal information that can be maliciously used. Experts suggest if you are filing your taxes online that you install some sort of internet security package and scan your PC for malware.  Another crime tax filers should watch out for is the individuals that prepare your online tax returns.  Using a trusted company to help you with your taxes seems to be the best option.  As I have pointed out on a previous Leadpile blog post, BE AWARE where you enter your information and this also applies to you with your tax returns.

DON’T forget to file your taxes by April 15th!