Did you know the IRS flagged over 1.4 million tax-related identity theft cases last year? Tax season isn't just busy for cybercriminals—it's an opportunity. With employees rushing to meet deadlines and sensitive financial data flying around, hackers are ready to strike when your guard is down.
Whether you're a small business or a growing team, it's critical to understand how tax season puts you at risk—and how to stay ahead of today's top cyber threats.
4 Reasons Hackers Target Businesses During Tax Season
1. More Sensitive Info Is Being Shared
During tax season, businesses exchange confidential data—think W-2s, Social Security numbers, banking info, and payroll records. This happens between team members and accountants, tax preparers, and payroll providers. That creates more entry points for hackers, primarily through phishing emails pretending to be someone you trust.
2. People Are Distracted and in a Hurry
Deadlines are tight, inboxes are overflowing, and everyone's trying to stay on track. That's precisely the kind of environment hackers count on. When your team moves fast, they're more likely to click without thinking, opening the door for scams and malware.
Top Cyber Threats
to Watch for This Tax Season
Here are the biggest red flags to keep an eye out for:
- Phishing Emails: Messages pretending to be from the IRS, your CPA, or a tax service that ask for sensitive info or lead to dangerous links.
- Fake Invoices or Payment Requests: Scammers send realistic-looking invoices or wire transfer requests to trick businesses into sending money.
- Ransomware Attacks: Hackers encrypt your financial records and demand payment to release them.
- Social Engineering: Calls or emails from people pretending to be your accountant or another trusted contact, asking for info they can use against you.
5 Ways to Protect Your Business During Tax Season
1. Train Your Team to Spot Red Flags
Most scams rely on human error, so awareness is your first line of defense. Make sure your team knows how to:
- Double-check email addresses before clicking on links or downloading files.
- Be skeptical of any urgent requests for money or password updates.
- Report anything suspicious right away.
2. Keep Communications Secure
Avoid sending tax documents through regular email. Use secure file-sharing tools or encrypted portals to keep sensitive data out of the wrong hands.
3. Turn On Multifactor Authentication (MFA)
MFA is one of the easiest and most effective ways to stop hackers—even if your password gets compromised. If any platform you use supports MFA, turn it on.
Pro tip: Enable MFA for all financial systems, email accounts, a
nd cloud storage tools.
4. Audit Your Cybersecurity Setup
Work with your IT team or provider to check for weak spots before hackers do. Focus on:
- Installing the latest software updates and security patches
- Securing all connected devices and access points
- Testing and verifying your data backups
5. Confirm Payment Requests Every Time
Before sending money or updating banking details, confirm requests with a quick phone call or separate communication. A two-minute check could save you thousands.
Don't Let Hackers Win This Tax Season
Tax season doesn't have to be open season for cyberc
riminals. You can protect your data and your team with the right tools, training, and awareness.
Let's ensure the only thing you're filing this spring is a tax return—not a security breach report.
➡️ Ready to uncover hidden risks in your system? Book a FREE Discovery Call today and discover how secure your business is.
