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 DOIT Training Update Notice
DOIT recently upgraded the state-wide training platform from Infosec IQ to Proofpoint Security Awareness Training (PSAT). To reduce any unforeseen errors, DOIT is deploying the 2024 Quarter 1 Security Awareness Training using a phased approach which will delay training assignments by a few weeks. We appreciate your patience during this transition. When training resumes, the new platform will send training assignments from awareness@securityeducation.com.
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ARE YOU AN EMPLOYEE OF THE STATE OF MARYLAND IN AN IT ROLE LOOKING TO EXPAND YOUR KNOWLEDGE IN CYBERSECURITY?
THE STATE-WIDE CYBER TRAINING INITIATIVE IS LAUNCHING THE NEXT SESSION FROM MARCH 4TH - APRIL 9TH. SEATS ARE LIMITED.
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 AI Voice Scams On The Rise!
Artificial Intelligence (AI) voice scams are an emerging threat where cyber criminals use AI generated voices to impersonate people you may know and trust. They do this for the purpose of manipulating victims into revealing personal and sensitive information or sending funds. These scams exploit the human tendency to trust that the voice on the other end of the phone line is authentic. Scammers use these familiar voices to create ficticious events such as health emergencies, legal troubles or other exigent circumstances to capture your attention and elicit your response. Visit the DOIT Cyber Awareness Webpage to learn about this and more emerging threats.
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 Tax Scam Season Is Here!
Tax season is here, and so is the annual tax scam phishing season. We all must work hard to keep our sensitive information out of the hands of cybercriminals.
Please remember that the IRS will never initiate contact with you by email, text messages, or social media to request personal or financial information.
"If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!" Don't become a victim of any scheme that offers instant wealth or exemption from your obligation as a United States citizen to file tax returns and/or pay taxes. Some of these schemes can literally cost you your life savings. Others can result in your prosecution and imprisonment if you knowingly participate in them.
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STAY INFORMED ABOUT THREATS, SCAMS & BEST PRACTICES
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How To Know If It Is Really The IRS Contacting You
Thousands of people have lost millions of dollars and their personal information to tax scams. Scammers use regular mail, telephone, and email to set up individuals, businesses, payroll, and tax professionals. Is the IRS really calling you?
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Types Of Tax Fraud - Abusive Preparer
Taxpayers should be cautious when choosing a tax preparer. While most preparers provide excellent service to their clients, a few unscrupulous return preparers file false and fraudulent tax returns and ultimately defraud their clients. It is important to know that even if someone else prepares your return, you are responsible for all the information on the tax return.
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Types Of Tax Fraud - Abusive Tax Schemes
Abusive tax schemes initially took the structure of fraudulent domestic and foreign trust arrangements. However, these schemes have evolved into sophisticated arrangements to give the appearance that taxpayers are not in control of their money. However, the taxpayers receive their funds through debit/credit cards or fictitious loans. These schemes often involve offshore banking and sometimes establish scam corporations or entities.
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Types Of Tax Fraud - Non-Filer Enforcement
There have always been individuals who argue taxes are voluntary or illegal for various reasons. The courts have repeatedly rejected their arguments as frivolous and routinely impose financial penalties for raising such frivolous arguments. Take the time to learn the truth about frivolous tax arguments.
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HOW TO REPORT
TAX CRIMES & SCAMS
To help the public recognize and avoid abusive tax schemes, the IRS offers an abundance of educational materials. Participating in an illegal scheme to avoid paying taxes can result in imprisonment and fines, as well as the repayment of taxes owed with penalties and interest. Education is the best way to avoid the pitfalls of these “too good to be true” tax scams.
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CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO OF HOW TO SPOT SCAMMERS WHO PRETEND TO BE IRS OFFICIALS TO GET YOU TO SEND THEM MONEY
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