Tax-related identity theft is on the rise in many South Florida ZIP codes, and standard email-based PDF exchanges simply aren’t enough to protect you. In this guide, we’ll explain how the IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP-PIN) and modern security practices safeguard your Tamarac tax filings—and why a SOC-2-compliant portal paired with proactive service is your best defense.
1. IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP-PIN) Program
What it is: A six-digit code issued by the IRS that verifies your identity on e-filed returns.
Key benefit: Prevents unauthorized filings under your Social Security number, ensuring only you (or your authorized preparer) can submit your return.
Authority: Apply for your IP-PIN directly through the IRS’s Identity Protection page:
🔗 https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/get-an-identity-protection-pin
2. Why Desktop PDFs Fall Short
What it is: Sending returns as standard PDF attachments via email.
Key risk: PDFs can be intercepted, altered or exposed through phishing, compromising personal data and delaying refunds.
3. Secure Portal Best Practices
What it is: Leveraging a SOC-2 compliant portal like TaxDome for encrypted document exchange—while maintaining a human connection. As detailed in our Embracing Technology Without Losing the Personal Touch blog, TaxDome lets us streamline document management, enable real-time collaboration, and deliver 24–72-hour turnaround without sacrificing personalized communication.
Key benefit: End-to-end encryption, detailed audit trails, and rapid file processing—combined with virtual face-to-face meetings via Google Meet and proactive check-ins for a truly secure yet personal experience.
4. Two-Factor & Biometric Authentication
What it is: Requiring an additional verification step (SMS code, authenticator app or device biometrics) to access your account.
Key benefit: Adds a second line of defense even if passwords are compromised, significantly reducing phishing and credential-stuffing risks.
5. Data-Breach Response Protocol
What it is: A predefined action plan if unauthorized access is suspected.
Key steps:
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Immediate portal-password reset and forced MFA re-enrollment
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Notifying affected clients and guiding IRS IP-PIN retrieval or reissuance
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Comprehensive review of activity logs to detect anomalies
Bringing It All Together
Protecting your personal and financial information starts with the right processes and tools. To see how secure, tech-enabled tax planning can also reveal savings opportunities, try our free Tax Strategy Finder now.