As tax season approaches, businesses are focused on preparing financial documents, filing returns, and meeting tight deadlines. Unfortunately, cybercriminals see this busy period as the perfect opportunity to strike.
Most hackers are looking for ways to exploit sensitive data, scam businesses, and create chaos. That’s why strong cybersecurity measures are critical this time of year. If you haven’t reviewed your security strategy recently, now is the time to schedule a free discovery call with our experts to ensure your business is fully protected.
Why Tax Season Attracts Cybercriminals
1. Increased Exchange of Sensitive Data
Tax season involves sharing financial and personal information within your organization and with external parties like accountants or payroll providers. Hackers exploit these exchanges by launching phishing attacks disguised as tax-related communications.
2. Tight Deadlines Lead to Mistakes
Under pressure to meet IRS deadlines, employees may rush through e-mails, links, or file attachments—making it easier for phishing scams and malware to slip through. Cybercriminals rely on this urgency to trick employees into making costly mistakes.
3. Higher Volume of E-mails
With businesses handling a flood of tax-related e-mails, it becomes easier for hackers to send fraudulent messages that appear legitimate. One wrong click could result in a data breach or malware infection—something no business can afford.
4. Widespread Scams Targeting Taxpayers
Hackers frequently impersonate trusted entities like the IRS or tax preparation services to deceive businesses into sharing confidential information or making fraudulent payments.
Common Tax Season Cyber Threats
Cybercriminals use a variety of scams to target businesses during tax season, including:
✔️ Phishing E-mails – Fake messages from "tax agencies" asking for sensitive information.
✔️ Fake Invoices & Payment Requests – Scammers send fraudulent invoices in hopes of tricking businesses into wiring money.
✔️ Ransomware Attacks – Hackers encrypt financial data and demand payment to unlock it.
✔️ Social Engineering – Calls or e-mails impersonating accountants or payroll providers to extract information.
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How to Protect Your Business This Tax Season
1. Train Your Team
Employee education is your first line of defense. Make sure your team knows how to recognize and respond to cyber threats:
🔹 Verify e-mail senders before opening attachments or clicking links.
🔹 Be cautious of urgent payment requests or unusual account updates.
🔹 Report suspicious e-mails immediately to IT.
2. Secure Your Communications
Use encrypted portals or secure file-sharing tools instead of e-mail for transmitting sensitive tax documents. Public e-mails are easy targets for cybercriminals, so data encryption is a must.
3. Implement Multifactor Authentication (MFA)
Requiring MFA for access to financial systems, e-mail accounts, and tax-related platforms adds an extra layer of security—even if hackers steal your login credentials.
We cannot stress enough how critical MFA is. If you’re unsure about your cybersecurity setup, explore our Network Security solutions for better protection.
4. Conduct a Cybersecurity Audit
A full audit can help detect vulnerabilities before hackers exploit them. A thorough security check should include:
✔️ Updating software and installing security patches.
✔️ Securing network endpoints and monitoring devices.
✔️ Verifying backup integrity to ensure data recovery if an attack occurs.
5. Verify All Financial Requests
Before processing large payments or financial transactions, verify them through a second communication method (e.g., a phone call) to ensure authenticity. Scammers often pose as executives or vendors to trick employees into sending money to fraudulent accounts.
Don’t Let Hackers Score This Tax Season
Tax time doesn’t have to be open season for hackers. By staying vigilant, educating your team, and implementing proactive cybersecurity measures, you can keep your business safe.
Let’s ensure the only thing you’re filing this season is a successful tax return—not a cybersecurity incident report. Schedule a Risk Assessment today and safeguard your financial data before tax season is in full swing!
