Top Dark Web Tax Scams of 2024: Protecting Yourself Against Cybercriminals
Thursday, 28 March 2024, 15:30
Understanding the Dark Web
The Dark Web sounds like the name of a spy novel, but it's a vast underground layer of the internet not reachable by conventional web browsers and search engines. Most internet activity remains on the 'surface web,' comprising only about 4-5% of the total internet.
Top Dark Web Tax Scams
- Bank accounts offered for illicit tax returns: Cybercriminals set up fraudulent bank accounts to steal tax refunds.
- Threat actors selling access to U.S. tax software: Hackers look to infiltrate tax software accounts and redirect refunds.
- Selling access to U.S. tax companies: Dark web criminals seek to exploit data breaches to access financial details.
- Stealing tax forms: Fraudsters retrieve W2 and 1040 forms to commit identity theft and tax refund fraud.
Protecting Yourself
- Sign up for two-factor authentication: Use this security measure on financial accounts and other important platforms.
- Utilize credit monitoring services: Monitor for suspicious activity to prevent identity theft.
- Beware of suspicious IRS communications: Guard against phishing attempts by being cautious of unsolicited contact from the IRS.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.