Tax filing season is here and so are the identity thieves and government impostors hoping to steal your money. Find out how to stop them during Tax Identity Theft Awareness Week, February 3-7.

Throughout the week, FTC and its partners will co-host free webinars and other events. They’ll all have information about avoiding tax identity theft, recognizing government impostors, and recovering from fraud. Some also will highlight special resources for active duty service members, older adults, and small businesses.

Tax identity theft happens when someone uses your Social Security number (SSN) to file a phony tax return and collect your refund. You may not find out about it until you try to file your tax return and the IRS rejects it as a duplicate filing. While the IRS investigates, your tax refund can be delayed. The misuse of your SSN means you also may be at risk of other types of identity theft.

To get tips on how to protect yourself, and to find an event to join in the coming weeks, please visit the Tax Identity Theft Awareness Week page. We hope to talk with you soon.