There has been a significant increase in identity theft- related tax refund fraud over the last several years. Although anyone with a Social Security card can become a victim, those who commit this crime tend to target people who don't usually file taxes, such as the elderly, low-income families, students. They also target public figures like celebrities, athletes, politicians, and government officials, even Attorney General Holder.
Both the FBI (Investigating tax refund fraud) and the IRS (Tips for taxpayers, victims about identity theft and tax returns) have tips regarding safeguarding personal information and when to file taxes to prevent becoming a victim.
For more information about identity theft, please visit our page on the topic.
