A tax preparation firm stores confidential taxpayer information, which hackers would like to access for personal profit. In the Taxpayer Data Security course, we discuss an array of information security threats and solutions, as well as the data safeguards recommended by the Federal Trade Commission and the Internal Revenue Service. We also describe a variety of data security options, as well as what to do if a data breach occurs. In short, the course describes how hackers can access your clients' data, and how you can prevent them from doing so.
Learning Objectives
Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:
Recognize the different types of attacks that hackers use to access taxpayer data.
Recall the types of insiders who can threaten information security.
Recognize the prevention techniques used to protect against downloading malware.
Specify the characteristics of a typical phishing email.
Recall the indicators of data theft.
Recall the best practices for keeping your computer infrastructure secure.
Recognize the requirements of the FTC Safeguards Rule.
Specify the notices required by the FTC when you plan to share non-public personal information with nonaffiliated parties.
Major Topics
Information Security Terminology
Hacker Interest in Tax Professionals
The Goal of Information Security
How to Spot Data Theft
IRS Commentary on Information Security
FTC Privacy Rules
Insurance Options
Fire Mitigation Activities
How to Deal with a Data Breach
