[Typ616]

And I don't mean my accountant.... apparently this is becoming a real prevalent issue. Almost a million bogus refund claims last year. They have your name a social # and file your taxes with fake W2s in order to claim a BS refund. (apparently the IRS issues $ before they double check the W2s) Then you go file electronically and you get told "uh sorry, you already filed" - denied... Lots of fun ensues (affidavit, forms, 6 months delays in getting your refund if any)... happened to a friend a few weeks back, and now me. I'm fuzzy with how they actually collect though... (though I have a clue after receiving and cancelling an unsollicited debit card in the mail a few weeks back - could be part of their plan)

Dunno why I'm surprised honestly, I can think of at least 5 *major* companies that "lost" our info already, including my past employer. I'm surprised my children aren't being called by debt collectors by now. Anyway, the point of this is: unless you are about to go buya house or car, go freeze your credit with all 3 big companies, well worth the $10 each to prevent more crap (you can lift the freeze with a pin # when shopping for a loan). Doesn't help with the IRS though, for them you 'll need a special pin, but contacting them by phone is impossible anymore. 100% overwhelmed in the fraud division.

Silver lining: no credit damage yet, or new cards or loans... all clean (you get a free report after filing a fraud claim - also free). Just the IRS... for now... Welcome to the digital age !