Fake IRS Site: Open Phishing Season for Taxpayers

Phishing attacks do not just target online banking and e-payment systems anymore, now the focus is on almost any site which asks for sensitive information.

Any avid Internet user should know that cybercriminals can steal your money not just by putting malware on your machine, but by using dangerous phishing attacks.

Sites run by government agencies are prime examples as they often demand a wealth of personal information. Filling in a tax return online may save time and paper, but it gives cybercriminals a great opportunity to pilfer data which could be used to steal your identity and commit more crimes in your name.

Now that 2010 is in full swing, United States tax payers can start submitting their tax returns for 2009. (Although the final deadline for submission isn't until April 15th, the earlier you submit your paperwork, the earlier you'll receive any rebate due.)

For added convenience, you can submit your tax information online, via the official IRS site. But be very, very careful. Cybercriminals have managed to design a phishing site which looks alarmingly accurate to the original, even the Acrobat Reader toolbar has been copied. This is not the first time cybercriminals have mimicked the official IRS site in an attempt to steal information from computer users. Each year around tax season several similar scams are carried out.

There will most likely be an increase in corrupt sites like these as the deadline for submitting tax returns draws nearer. So be on guard and check the web address of the site you're visiting, because in attacks like these you could lose far more than just your credit card number.