Why trucking businesses are prime targets
Tax season is open—and so is the window for identity thieves. Criminals use stolen Social Security numbers (SSNs) and Employer Identification Numbers (EINs) to file bogus returns, divert refunds, or harvest W‑2/1099 data from employers. A new advisory from the United States Senate Federal Credit Union (USSFCU) stresses filing early, locking down personal information, and treating unsolicited “IRS” contacts with extreme skepticism. For truckers, that means safeguarding driver rosters, payroll and settlement systems, and your own personal credentials.
File early and control your identity footprint
Filing as soon as your documents are in hand is one of the simplest ways to “call dibs” on your refund before a thief can. USSFCU also reminds taxpayers that the IRS will not demand payment by gift cards, crypto, or wire, and won’t initiate contact via text or social media—classic red flags used against time‑pressed filers during peak season. Keep SSNs and bank details off email and text, and use a shredder for old returns.
Add a padlock: Use an IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)
Owner-operators and family members can opt into the IRS Identity Protection PIN program—a six‑digit code the IRS requires with your return. Even if a thief has your SSN, they can’t successfully e‑file without your current IP PIN. You can obtain and view your IP PIN through your IRS Online Account; if online verification isn’t possible, in‑person options exist at Taxpayer Assistance Centers. Safeguard the number and share it only with the IRS and your trusted preparer.
For fleets: Stop W‑2/1099 data heists before they start
W‑2 phishing remains a high‑impact threat for carriers with employee drivers and back‑office payroll access. Scammers spoof executives or HR to trick staff into emailing W‑2 PDFs or SSN lists—fuel for refund fraud. The IRS advises businesses that receive a W‑2 phishing email to forward it (with full headers) to phishing@irs.gov using the subject line “W2 Scam,” and to report broader incidents to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). If a data loss occurs, alert the IRS at dataloss@irs.gov and follow your incident‑response plan. Regular security training, MFA on payroll systems and tax software, and least‑privilege access for HR/payroll staff dramatically reduce risk.
Tactics truckers should expect this season
- Imposter contacts demanding instant payment. Fraudsters pose as the IRS or a tax pro and push gift cards, crypto, or wire transfers. Hang up and verify independently—don’t use numbers in the message.
- “Help” setting up your IRS account. No third party is needed to create an IRS Online Account; scammers use this pretext to harvest your data and file in your name. Create the account yourself and enable multifactor authentication.
- Spear‑phishing of payroll/HR. Targeted emails try to capture W‑2 files or direct deposits. Confirm unusual requests by phone using known numbers and require dual approval for payroll changes.
Owner-operators: tighten your personal defenses
- Use strong, unique passwords and MFA on tax software, bank, ELD/back‑office portals, and your IRS Online Account; avoid public Wi‑Fi for financial tasks.
- Monitor bank/credit activity during filing season and review IRS notices promptly; small anomalies can signal a larger compromise.
- Work with a reputable, credentialed tax professional, or use trusted software. Free help may also be available through IRS‑certified programs if you qualify.
If something looks off, act fast
Warning signs include an e‑file rejection because a return already exists under your SSN, IRS notices about wages from an employer you don’t recognize, or refund delays you can’t explain. If you suspect theft, file your return as soon as you can, secure your financial accounts, and follow IRS guidance to protect your tax identity and prevent repeat victimization—requesting an IP PIN is a strong first step.
Bottom line for the road
In trucking, time is money—and tax identity theft steals both. File early, lock down access, train your team, and treat unexpected “IRS” outreach as suspect until verified. Those steps, plus an IP PIN for individuals and disciplined anti‑phishing controls for fleets, can keep your hard‑earned refund and your drivers’ data where they belong.
Sources Consulted: United States Senate Federal Credit Union (Security Corner blog); Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
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This article was prepared exclusively for truckstopinsider.com. For professional tax advice, consult a qualified professional.
