Security Center

Important Tax Fraud Alert

Only a few days into the filing season, the IRS has already identified a new scam that began with cyber criminals stealing data from several tax practitioners’ computers and filing fraudulent tax returns.

In a new twist, the fraudulent returns in a few cases used the taxpayers' real bank accounts for the deposit. A woman posing as a debt collection agency official then contacted the taxpayers to say a refund was deposited in error and asked the taxpayers to forward the money to her.

IRS guidance to taxpayers who are victims asks them to contact the Automated Clearing House (ACH) department of the bank where the direct deposit was received and have them return the refund to the IRS. The IRS also asks the taxpayers to call the agency toll-free at 800-829-1040 (individual) or 800-829-4933 (business) to explain why the direct deposit is being returned.

Fraud Report

We are aware of fraudulent text messages and phishing emails being sent out impersonating banks. USLA will NEVER contact you via email, text, or phone to ask for any account, confidential, or personal information. If you receive one of these fraudulent text messages or emails, delete it immediately. DO NOT open any attachments, as they may attempt to gather your information or attack your computer.

Tips to Protect Your Data:

To be safe on the internet, do not visit websites or follow links provided by unknown or untrusted sources.

• Do not open email attachments that are of unknown origin, as this is often the source of virus and worm infections.
• Keep virus software current on every computer, especially those that conduct financial transactions over the Internet.
• Keep computers patched with current Microsoft fixes, especially those that conduct financial transactions over the Internet.

Federal Trade Commission – Identity Theft Recovery Steps

The US Government provides assistance to citizens who have been victims of identity theft, as well as provides information to all on the subject through their website, IdentityTheft.gov. Union Savings and Loan is proud to provide the following link to this site as a service to our customers.

Visit FTC