Tax Fraud Scams

Cyber threats are on the rise, and protecting sensitive information has never been more critical. At Drake we continue to monitor for scams and bring you the latest cyber news to help keep you informed.

Some examples of recent fraud scams include: 

1. EFIN Phishing

Cybercriminals impersonate software providers instructing the tax professional to fax their EFIN document or click on links to do so.

Remember: Drake Software will not ask you to fax, email, or click on links from an      email pertaining to uploading EFIN documents.

2. New Client Scam

Hackers impersonate new or prospective clients and provide malicious links or attachments for tax professionals to click on or download.

3. Fake Invoice

Cybercriminals mimic tax software companies or financial institutions, claiming an invoice has gone unpaid and instruct the tax professional to access the invoice by clicking a malicious link or file.

 4. General Phishing and Smishing

There are fake communications coming from entities posing as organizations in the tax and financial community, including the IRS, state tax agencies, and tax software companies.

These messages arrive in the form of unsolicited texts or emails to lure unsuspecting victims into clicking on malicious links or providing valuable personal and financial information that can lead to compromise.

Cybercriminals often use threats of actions that will be taken if you don’t comply with the request in the email or text message.

Remember: Be cautious when receiving unsolicited communications claiming to be from Drake Software or the IRS. While we do send official emails that may require action, always verify the sender and links before clicking by:

• Making sure the email address is spelled correctly
• Check the actual email address and not just the display name
• Check email headlines and verifying that do not appear suspicious 

Drake Software Fraud Monitoring and Notification

Drake Software’s Fraud Team is committed to continuous fraud monitoring.

In the unlikely event the Fraud Team locates suspicious activity related to your account, they will call you to discuss and may send follow-up emails.

If you're ever in doubt, please reach out to our Fraud or Customer Support Teams directly:

📞 Drake Software Fraud Department: 866-369-9308
📧 Email: Fraud@DrakeSoftware.com

Stay Secure: Simple Tips to Improve Your Security

To help secure your account and proactively protect your data, we recommend these best practices:

1. Change Your E-File Password Regularly:

Updating your password regularly is the first line of defense against unauthorized access.

🔹 Steps to update:

1. Visit drakesoftware.com
2. Log in and navigate to Applications > Drake Software Support > Account > E-File Password > Edit Password

Create a strong, unique password that you haven't used before

Pro Tip: Use a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters for added security.\

2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Adding an extra layer of security can help prevent unauthorized access to your account.

🔹 Steps to  to enable MFA:

1. Log in to drakesoftware.com
2. Go to My Account > Multi-Factor Authentication > Turn On
3. Follow the setup instructions to help secure your login

Remember: The IRS now requires multi-factor authentication (MFA) for anyone accessing systems remotely if they handle sensitive taxpayer information. This extra layer of security helps protect accounts and data from unauthorized access.

3. Scan and Update Your Systems

Cyber threats often infiltrate through outdated software or compromised devices.

Steps to scan and update your system:

1. Run malware scans on all work and personal devices that access your account
   2. Ensure your operating system, antivirus protection, and software are updated
   3. Patch any vulnerabilities by applying security updates regularly

Remember: Keeping your systems updated is one of the most effective ways to prevent security breaches.

4. Monitor Your EFIN & E-File Submissions

Cybercriminals may attempt to misuse your Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN).  Steps to monitor your EFIN and E-File submissions: 

-Regularly review your EFIN usage and e-file submissions through IRS e-Services
-Check for any unusual activity that could indicate unauthorized access 

If you notice anything suspicious, take immediate action to secure your account.

Stay Proactive, Stay Secure

Cyber threats can impact anyone but taking these security measures may help as you seek to protect your account, safeguard your data, and prevent fraud.

For more information on recent tax scams, please read our recent post about IRS tax scams.