Stay Alert of the Risk of Tax Fraud

It's a growing concern in our country, tax identification theft and fraud.  Giselle Jefferson of Colorado State University Extension says this happens when the perpetrator has,

"Your name, social security number and your birth date, that can all link up with the previous records that appear to be authentic and looks like it's coming from you."

Jefferson said that information allows the ID thieves to file a phony tax return using fraudulent W2s and other tax forms, ore perhaps get a job in your name, and file a return based on the money they've earned.

"It won't be until you, perhaps, file your tax return that you might get a statement from the IRS saying that this is a duplicate...there's already been a tax filing in your name for your account."

She said that if you are the victim of tax ID fraud or of the fraudulent use of your social security number, report it immediately to the local authorities.