Tax season is a busy time of year for many Canadians, as they gather their financial information and prepare their tax returns. However, it is also a prime time for cybercriminals to steal personal and financial information. In fact, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre reported that in 2020, over 20,000 Canadians fell victim to tax-related scams, resulting in over $18 million in losses. In this blog post, we will provide you with everything you need to know about protecting your personal information online during tax season.
- File your taxes online securely: Filing your taxes online can be a convenient and efficient way to get your taxes done. However, it’s important to make sure that you’re using a secure website. Always make sure that the website you’re using is legitimate and secure, by checking that the web address begins with “https” and has a padlock symbol next to it.
- Protect your social insurance number: Your social insurance number (SIN) is a unique nine-digit number that is required for many financial transactions, including filing your tax return. It’s essential that you keep your SIN confidential and only provide it when necessary. Make sure you never give your SIN to anyone who you don’t trust or who does not have a legitimate reason to ask for it.
- Beware of phishing scams: Phishing scams are a common tactic used by cybercriminals to obtain personal and financial information. They typically involve an email, phone call, or text message that appears to be from a legitimate organization, such as the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). These messages often ask you to provide personal or financial information or click on a link that will take you to a fake website. Always be wary of messages that ask for personal or financial information and double-check the sender’s email address or phone number before responding.
- Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication: Strong passwords and two-factor authentication are essential for protecting your personal and financial information online. Make sure your passwords are unique and complex, using a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible, which adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of identification, such as a fingerprint or code.
- Monitor your credit report: It’s important to regularly monitor your credit report to ensure that there are no unauthorized transactions or accounts in your name. You can obtain a free credit report from Equifax or TransUnion once a year. If you notice any suspicious activity, contact your financial institution immediately.
In conclusion, protecting your personal information online during tax season is essential to avoid falling victim to tax-related scams. By following the tips above, you can help keep your personal and financial information secure. Stay vigilant and remember that if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. If you do fall victim to a scam, report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre immediately.