Tax season could expose unemployment fraud cases
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
This tax season experts are warning the public about signs that they've been victims of identity or tax fraud with a pandemic-related twist.
CNN reported Wednesday that some people are receiving tax form 1099-G in the mail, which is meant for people claiming unemployment benefits, without having claimed unemployment benefits. Scammers have defrauded taxpayers for billions of dollars with unemployment fraud, including claiming benefits in someone else's name via identity theft.
Other tax scams are also rampant this time of year.
Michelle Gleba with the Better Business Bureau said it's particularly important to safeguard personal and financial information during tax season.
"Don't leave sensitive information out in the open in your home, get in the habit of shredding sensitive information you no longer need, and always be suspicious of unsolicited communication," she said.
If you think you are a victim of identity theft, the Better Business Bureau recommends taking steps to act quickly.
- Report the fraud
- Immediately review bank and credit card statements
- Check with your credit bureau to see if there are inquiries or accounts you didn't authorize.
According to the Federal Trade Commission, if you are suspicious your identity has been stolen, close any new accounts in your name, report a misused social security number, and if need be replace any government issued IDs.
The Better Business Bureau deals with scammers who are always evolving their techniques.
"We are going through a global pandemic and there is a lot going on, so scammers are going to look at every which way they can take advantage of that situation," Gleba said.
