A scam email is attempting to trick preparers into providing the electronic filing identification and drivers’ license numbers. The Internal Revenue Service has reported the email says it is from “IRS Tax E-Filing" and warns preparers their ability to efile will be disabled if they do not comply.
The attachment may contain malware that allows the thief to track keystrokes and eventually steal passwords or take over control of the computer systems.
The communication, which has the subject "Verifying your EFIN before e-filing", claims the IRS is requiring all efile originators to provide the information before the transmit returns. That means we need your EFIN (e-file identification number) verification and Driver's license before you e-file,” according to the message in the email.
It asks for a PDF copy or image of EFIN acceptance letters (5880c), dated within the last 12 months or a copy of the IRS EFIN Application Summary from a preparer’s e-Services account at IRS.gov, along with copies of the front and back of the person’s driver’s license.
Bob Scott has provided information to the tax and accounting community since 1991, first as technology editor of Accounting Today, and from 1997 through 2009 as editor of its sister publication, Accounting Technology. He is known throughout the industry for his depth of knowledge and for his high journalistic standards. Scott has made frequent appearances as a speaker, moderator and panelist and events serving tax and accounting professionals. He has a strong background in computer journalism as an editor with two former trade publications, Computer+Software News and MIS Week and spent several years with weekly and daily newspapers in Morris County New Jersey prior to that. A graduate of Indiana University with a degree in journalism, Bob is a native of Madison, Ind