IRS Urges Strong Passwords to Protect Against Identity Theft
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS), along with state tax agencies and the tax professional industry, encourages taxpayers to strengthen their passwords to help prevent identity theft. Passwords serve as the first line of defense against cybercriminals who may attempt to access computers, mobile phones, and other internet-connected devices.
In an effort to combat identity theft and fraudulent tax returns, the IRS has launched the Taxes. Security. Together. public awareness campaign, offering security tips to help taxpayers safeguard their information.
Best Practices for Stronger Passwords
To improve password security and reduce risks, follow these key steps:
- Enable password protection on all devices – Use passwords on computers, tablets, mobile phones, and wireless networks.
- Change default passwords – Factory-set passwords on devices (such as webcams) should be updated immediately.
- Use longer passwords – A minimum of 8 characters is recommended, but 10-12 characters with a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special symbols offer stronger protection.
- Avoid common passwords – Do not use personal information such as names or birthdates in passwords.
- Use unique passwords for different accounts – Reusing passwords increases vulnerability; separate passwords for financial and tax-related accounts help minimize risk.
- Enable two-factor authentication – Many financial institutions and social media platforms provide this option, requiring a verification code to access accounts.
- Consider a password manager – These tools help create and store complex passwords securely, ensuring stronger protection across multiple accounts.