IRS touts resource on identity theft

The IRS on Monday touted a streamlined resource on its website on identity theft protection, as people are starting to file their 2019 tax returns.

The agency said that it has launched a webpage called “Identity Theft Central,” which includes information about how people can safeguard their information and how victims of tax-related identity theft can take action.

The webpage also includes resources for businesses and tax professionals.

The tax-filing season started last week, and identity theft has been a persistent challenge that the IRS is working to combat.

Several years ago, the IRS launched a partnership with state tax agencies and tax preparers to fight identity theft. The IRS said Monday that the partnership has made progress but that identity thieves continue to look for new ways to try to steal personal information and use that data to file fraudulent tax returns claiming refunds.