 TITLE: How to Fight Tax Identity Theft CONTENT: Understanding IRS Methods\n-------------------------\nSocial Security numbers are a frequent target of many fraudsters, and should be closely guarded under all circumstances. Their use in bogus tax returns is a regular focus of consumer warnings from the IRS—as are warnings about criminals impersonating the IRS over the phone, via email and even in person.\nCriminals are continually updating their tactics, and the IRS updates its consumer alerts webpage accordingly. It's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the latest scams, as you can avoid many bogus IRS shakedowns if you understand what real IRS representatives do and don't do when they get in touch with taxpayers. END