“Protect Yourself from Tax Fraud”

Financial Horizons: Insights for Building Wealth and Securing Your Legacy

By  Dr. Jose G. Cardenas, Chief Tax Strategist at The C & R Group, LLC

Tax season is a prime time for criminals to strike—and tax fraud is one of the fastest-growing forms of identity theft in America. Every year, millions of taxpayers are blindsided by fraudulent filings in their names, stolen refunds, and compromised financial data. But you don’t have to be one of them.

Here’s how to recognize the threats and take action now to protect your money, your credit, and your peace of mind.

Why You Need to Be on High Alert

Tax fraud typically occurs when someone gains unauthorized access to your Social Security Number (SSN) or other personal data and uses it to file a tax return in your name. Once that false return is processed, your legitimate return may be rejected—or worse, your refund may already be gone.

The IRS flagged over 1.1 million fraudulent tax returns in a single year, and the threat continues to rise with every digital breach and phishing scam. Staying vigilant is not optional—it’s essential.

6 Practical Ways to Protect Yourself from Tax Fraud

1. Safeguard Your Social Security Number
Never post or store your SSN on unsecured websites, public documents, or online platforms. Shred old paperwork, and never email your SSN without encrypted protection.

2. Monitor Your Credit Score
Regularly check your credit score and look for sudden changes or unfamiliar activity. Use tools like Experian, TransUnion, or Credit Karma to get alerts on new account openings or credit pulls.

3. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Avoid using the same password across multiple platforms. Create complex, unpredictable passwords for all financial or government accounts. Consider using a password manager for extra security.

4. Review Your Bank Statements Monthly
Scan your statements line by line to catch unauthorized transactions early. Fraudsters often test accounts with small charges before striking bigger.

5. Watch for Phishing Emails and Texts
The IRS will never email, call, or text you to ask for sensitive data. If you receive suspicious messages claiming to be from the IRS or a tax service, don’t click any links—report and delete them immediately.

6. File Your Taxes Early
One of the best ways to block fraud is to beat scammers to the punch. Filing your taxes early limits the window they have to use your identity.

What to Do If You Suspect Tax Fraud

If you receive a letter from the IRS indicating a suspicious filing, respond immediately. You may need to submit IRS Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit) and work with a tax professional to resolve your case.

Your Next Step

Don’t leave your financial future up to chance. Take action today:

✅ Lock down your personal data
✅ Review your credit and financial accounts
✅ Schedule a secure tax preparation session with our team

📅 Book your personalized tax protection consultation now:
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🌐 Visit www.thecrgroupllc.com to learn more about our security-focused tax planning services.

About the Author

Dr. Jose G. Cardenas is a retired U.S. Army Finance Officer and the Chief Tax Strategist at The C & R Group, LLC. With a Doctorate in Business Administration and more than two decades of experience in financial strategy, tax compliance, and wealth protection, Dr. Cardenas empowers individuals and business owners to secure their legacy and avoid costly missteps.

📌 Disclosure: This article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as personalized legal, tax, or financial advice. Dr. Jose G. Cardenas offers tax advisory services through The C & R Group, LLC and provides licensed insurance guidance through Experior Financial Group.

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