Keeper Security Issues Top 5 Cybersecurity Tips for the 2023 Tax Season
CIOREVIEW >> >> NEWS

Keeper Security Issues Top 5 Cybersecurity Tips for the 2023 Tax Season

CIO Review

CHICAGO - With the 2023 tax season upon us, individuals and businesses are reminded to stay vigilant to protect their personal and financial information from cyberthreats. Tax season is an opportune time for cybercriminals to send out phishing scams, steal sensitive information, and exploit weaknesses in personal and organizational networks. To help taxpayers avoid becoming victims of cybercrime, Keeper Security is providing the following cybersecurity tips.

#1 Be on the lookout for phishing and phone scams. Cybercriminals have been known to pose as the IRS, tax preparation companies and other tax-related organizations in an attempt to steal your personal information. These attempts can include phone calls, text messages, emails and other forms of communication. To avoid becoming a victim of a phishing attack, do not open attachments or click on links from unknown sources, verify that it's a trusted source requesting the information and check any links to make sure they're not leading you to a malicious site. The IRS will not send unsolicited emails, phone calls or text messages asking for personal information, financial information or payment.

#2 Create strong, unique passwords for all of your accounts. This is especially important for your financial accounts. Passwords should be at least 12 characters with a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, a variety of symbols and a random assortment of numbers. Also, consider a passphrase rather than a single word. Avoid using easily guessable information such as familiar names, birthdates and addresses. Finally, make sure you have different, high-strength passwords for all of your accounts. This way, if one account is breached, a cybercriminal does not gain access to all your accounts. A password manager can generate and securely store strong passwords, which can be especially useful for accounts that are infrequently used. Consider using multi-factor authentication for your accounts as a second layer of security.

#3 Securely store and share sensitive documents. Tax preparers will require sensitive documents with personally identifiable information (PII) which could include your SSN, Form W-2, an Identity Protection PIN or banking information. While physical copies of tax documents can be locked in a file cabinet or safe, digital copies should be stored on a secure external hard drive or in a secure cloud storage system. Sending these documents through email or text messaging can expose sensitive information. Instead, utilize an encrypted service such as One-Time Share to send tax documents and financial information. Your tax preparer may also use a secure file transfer service. Ensure that you're only sharing this sensitive information with those who need it, such as your tax preparer, financial advisor or lawyer.

#4 Make sure your software is up-to-date. Regularly update your operating system, web browser, security software and other applications to ensure they have the latest security patches and features. Software updates not only patch security flaws that cybercriminals can take advantage of, but also add new features and improve existing ones. It is especially important to check your tax software if you have not touched it since the last time you filed your taxes.

#5 Use a secure WiFi connection when filing taxes or sending tax information online. Public WiFi is a key battleground for cybercriminals. Thus, without proper protections, you may be vulnerable to both a cyberattack and eavesdropping. Open Public WiFi, absent adequate encryption software, should not be used to send any personal or financial information. The use of public computers should be avoided for the same reason. Use a trusted network with a strong WiFi password, a VPN and ensure your home router's software is up to date.

When filing income tax returns, it's crucial to take proactive measures to prevent your personal and financial information from being compromised. By following these simple tips, individuals and organizations will be far less likely to fall victim to cybercrime this tax season. Becoming a victim of identity theft can not only have immediate impacts, but can also create additional steps when filing taxes in future seasons. It's also advised to file early to avoid phishing scams that come up closer to the deadline and to address any issues that may arise ahead of time.

The IRS can issue Information Protection PINs as a proactive step to protect yourself from tax-related identity theft. The IRS has multiple resources available for taxpayers to have their questions answered, learn more about the tax filing process and receive help if your information or identity has been stolen.

More in News

Organizations throughout Latin America are increasingly looking for business management platforms that can adapt to changing operational needs while supporting long-term growth. Odoo ERP implementation and customization solutions have gained significant attention due to their flexibility, scalability, and capacity to unify multiple business functions within a single system. Odoo is becoming a preferred choice for businesses aiming to streamline operations, enhance visibility, and create more efficient workflows, all without compromising on customization capabilities. Modern organizations manage a wide range of interconnected processes, including finance, sales, procurement, inventory, manufacturing, customer relationship management, human resources, and project management. Managing these activities through separate software systems often creates inefficiencies, data silos, and communication challenges. Odoo ERP addresses these issues by providing an integrated platform that allows businesses to manage operations through a centralized environment. The growing demand for operational agility is encouraging companies throughout Latin America to adopt ERP solutions that can evolve alongside their business needs. Odoo's modular structure allows organizations to implement specific functions while expanding capabilities over time as operational requirements grow. As businesses seek greater efficiency and adaptability, Odoo ERP implementation and customization services are becoming important components of successful digital transformation strategies. Tailored ERP Implementation for Diverse Business Requirements Successful ERP implementation involves much more than software installation. Organizations require solutions that align with existing processes, industry requirements, and long-term business objectives. Odoo implementation specialists help companies evaluate operational needs, configure system functionality, and develop deployment strategies that support organizational goals. Businesses can select the applications most relevant to their operations, including accounting, inventory management, sales, purchasing, manufacturing, customer service, and human resources. This flexibility allows organizations to build ERP environments that match their specific operational requirements. Implementation projects often begin with detailed process analysis to identify inefficiencies, workflow challenges, and opportunities for improvement. Consultants work closely with stakeholders to understand how information flows throughout the organization and how ERP technology can support better operational performance. Organizations frequently need to transfer information from legacy systems into the new ERP environment while maintaining data accuracy and continuity. Employees who understand system functionality and business benefits are more likely to adopt new processes effectively. Customization and Business Process Optimization Businesses often have unique workflows, reporting requirements, and operational procedures that cannot be fully addressed through standardized software configurations. Odoo customization solutions allow organizations to modify workflows, develop specialized modules, create custom reports, and integrate additional functionalities that support specific business objectives. These capabilities help ensure that the ERP system reflects actual operational requirements rather than forcing businesses to adapt to rigid software structures. Workflow automation is becoming increasingly important as companies seek greater efficiency and consistency. Automated approval processes, inventory updates, financial transactions, customer communications, and reporting activities help reduce manual workloads while improving operational accuracy. Integration capabilities further enhance ERP effectiveness. Businesses often rely on multiple digital tools for e-commerce, payment processing, logistics management, customer engagement, and other operational functions. Odoo customization specialists help connect these systems, creating a more unified technology ecosystem. Managers and decision-makers can access accurate information regarding financial performance, inventory status, sales activities, production operations, and customer interactions. This visibility supports faster and more informed business decisions. As organizations continue digitizing operations, customization and automation are helping transform ERP systems into strategic platforms that drive operational excellence. Future Growth and Emerging Opportunities Businesses throughout Latin America are increasingly recognizing the value of adaptable ERP platforms that can support both current requirements and future expansion. Odoo's flexibility makes it particularly attractive for organizations operating in dynamic and competitive markets. Small and medium-sized enterprises are becoming significant adopters of ERP technology as they seek tools that support growth without introducing unnecessary complexity. Odoo's scalable structure allows businesses to start with core functions and expand capabilities as operations evolve. Industry-specific implementations are also becoming more common. Manufacturing companies, distributors, retailers, service providers, agricultural businesses, and logistics organizations often require tailored ERP environments that reflect sector-specific workflows and operational priorities. Cloud adoption continues to influence ERP strategies across the region. Cloud-based deployments provide flexibility, accessibility, and simplified system management while supporting remote and multi-location operations. AI, advanced analytics, and intelligent automation are expected to enhance ERP functionality in the coming years further. These technologies may help organizations improve forecasting, resource planning, customer engagement, and operational decision-making. The growing focus on customer experience is also shaping ERP development. Businesses increasingly seek systems that provide deeper insights into customer behavior, preferences, and service opportunities. Odoo ERP implementation and customization solutions will continue supporting digital transformation initiatives across Latin America. The emphasis will remain on flexibility, process optimization, automation, and business scalability. It is a strategic tool that enables organizations to streamline operations, adapt to change, and build stronger foundations for future success. ...Read more
Strategic sales prospecting solutions are enabling businesses in Latin America to enhance their revenue strategies by identifying high-potential prospects and creating targeted engagement opportunities. Companies are increasingly leveraging data-driven insights, automation tools, and advanced analytics to improve lead qualification and assist sales teams in connecting with the right decision-makers. These solutions enhance customer targeting, reduce time spent on unproductive outreach and improve the overall efficiency of sales processes. As organizations seek stronger market connections, these solutions are enabling more personalized communication, better relationship building and improved conversion opportunities across diverse industries in the region. Evolving Market Landscape of Strategic Sales Prospecting Solutions The market for strategic sales prospecting solutions in Latin America is changing as companies grapple with the evolving industry dynamics and competitive commercial environments. As a result, many organizations are reconsidering their traditional approaches to entering new markets and are beginning to adopt more methodical processes that drive better planning, as well as the management of opportunities in sales. And this shifting environment shows the increasing demand for flexible models that support businesses in responding to new market conditions and evolving purchasing behaviors. The growing competitive environment under which companies operate is driving better integration of sales and marketing functions while increasing demand for advanced operational capabilities. Businesses are integrating artificial intelligence, customer relationship management systems and predictive technologies to refine internal workflows, improve sales forecasting accuracy and support more informed business decisions. These advancements are helping organizations build more resilient sales operations while adapting to complex market requirements. "Enhanced integration of prospecting platforms with business systems is enabling companies to streamline processes for managing customer interactions and tracking sales activities." It is projected that the future trend of strategic sales prospecting solutions in Latin America will be shaped by digital transformation and the adoption of technology-based sales methodologies. Companies are exploring innovative capabilities that can strengthen market visibility, enhance revenue planning and improve their ability to identify emerging business opportunities. This progression is positioning strategic sales prospecting solutions as an important element in shaping modern commercial strategies across the region. Transforming Sales Strategies through Personalization and Automation Companies in Latin America are increasingly using intent-based prospecting approaches to better understand the needs of potential customers and to improve the timing of sales interactions. Buyer intelligence platforms are gaining momentum as organizations seek to gain more insights into purchasing patterns, industry developments and account priorities. This change is encouraging sales teams to take a more informed approach to engagement that aligns outreach with particular business needs.   The rise of automation-driven sales tools is becoming a significant trend in the strategic sales prospecting solutions space. Organizations are exploring technologies that streamline repetitive tasks, enhance workflow coordination and enable sales professionals to dedicate more attention to high-value activities. Enhanced integration of prospecting platforms with business systems is enabling companies to streamline processes for managing customer interactions and tracking sales activities. As companies try to generate more relevant conversations in highly competitive markets, personalization is becoming more and more important. Companies are focusing on account-based strategies, customized messaging and industry-specific approaches to improve engagement quality. This trend is especially impactful in Latin America, where many companies from different sectors want to connect better with their specific market niches and create deeper sales communication. Strategic sales prospecting solutions are expected to advance further as businesses increasingly adopt cloud-based technologies and next-generation sales platforms. Organizations are prioritizing flexible tools that support remote collaboration, real-time access to information and scalable sales operations. These developments are shaping a more connected prospecting ecosystem where businesses can adapt their approaches based on changing market requirements and evolving customer expectations. Navigating Key Challenges in the Sector Strategic sales prospecting solutions in Latin America face several obstacles as organizations work to build stronger market connections and improve sales outcomes. One of the major challenges is managing inconsistent prospect information, which can affect the accuracy of sales efforts and create difficulties in identifying the most suitable business opportunities. Companies are addressing this concern through improved data management practices, regular database updates and advanced verification methods that help maintain reliable prospect records. Another challenge is that the sales strategies need to be in alignment with rapidly evolving customer behavior and diverse industry requirements. Businesses often struggle to create outreach approaches that resonate across different market segments, making it important to develop flexible engagement frameworks. The adoption of specialized training programs, refined sales methodologies and industry-focused approaches is helping teams create more relevant interactions while improving their ability to respond to varied customer needs. Lack of coordination between different business functions can also affect the effectiveness of prospecting initiatives. Companies are making efforts in order to develop strong communication and workflow systems so that their sales processes are aligned with overall business goals. Enhanced collaboration, standardized processes and performance tracking mechanisms are helping organizations bridge the gap and achieve better sales execution. The future success of strategic sales prospecting solutions will depend on how successfully companies are able to meet these challenges as they adapt to changing commercial conditions in Latin America.   Companies that focus on strengthening operational discipline, improving decision-making processes and adopting practical solutions will be better positioned to capture new opportunities and build lasting competitive advantages in the regional marketplace.  ...Read more
The hardest mainframe decisions rarely begin with code. They begin when the people who understand the code leave before the business has captured what they know. For executives responsible for mainframe modernization, this creates a narrow buying problem. Service has to reduce risk around aging applications while giving the organization practical options, rather than pushing it toward a rushed migration or a long consulting program that may outrun budget tolerance. Many enterprises still run applications that were shaped over decades by programmers who understood not only COBOL syntax but also the business rules buried inside it. This knowledge was often held in memory, reinforced through maintenance history and informal handoffs. Once those developers retire, application may still run, yet organization loses confidence in changing it. A small modification can require days of tracing dependencies across programs, schedulers, databases and files. Modernization services should be judged by how well they expose those relationships before change begins. Cost pressure adds another constraint. Mainframes remain expensive platforms, and many buyers want lower run costs without weakening systems that still support core transactions. Decision is not always between staying on the mainframe and leaving it. Some applications may be modernized in place, while others may move off platform over time. A credible service provider should help leaders examine application estate, map dependencies and understand business logic clearly enough to choose the right path for each system. “Love’s Financial uses QuickPay, a freight factoring web and mobile system, to let carriers submit invoices from the road and access funding options as fast as 60 minutes.” Talent access also matters. Traditional hiring models are poorly suited to urgent COBOL or systems programming gaps, especially when need is part-time, project-based or tied to a specific technical environment. Buyers should look for access to senior mainframe expertise that can be deployed quickly without turning every staffing shortage into a full-time headcount problem. Stronger model is one that can supplement internal teams, mentor newer staff and preserve continuity while organization builds its own long-term capacity. Documentation must move beyond static manuals. Executives need tools that turn legacy application knowledge into a digital resource that can support impact analysis, maintenance planning, collaboration and future code work. That means tracing what a program touches, how code flows, which business functions are affected by a change and where critical logic sits beneath years of accumulated modification. Service provider’s role is not only to explain current system but to make system easier to work with after engagement ends. The Smith Group fits this buying logic because it approaches mainframe modernization through a network of specialized providers rather than a single fixed delivery model. It connects clients with experienced systems programming and application specialists, including contract resources suited to fill urgent skills gaps. Its work also brings in application discovery and documentation tools such as Docet EV from RES IT, along with Phase Change Software’s COBOL Colleague for code understanding, restructuring and business-logic isolation. For buyers trying to preserve system knowledge while deciding whether to modernize on or off platform, The Smith Group offers a practical route through focused expertise, digital application visibility and staffing support aligned to the actual mainframe problem at hand. ...Read more
Digital transformation solutions in Canada have evolved from simple IT upgrades to comprehensive strategies that redefine how organizations operate, compete, and deliver value. Businesses across sectors are no longer viewing transformation as a one-time initiative. Instead, they are embedding it into their core strategy to drive agility, resilience, and long-term growth. For CEOs and decision-makers, digital transformation has become a leadership priority that shapes operational models, customer engagement, and competitive positioning. Canada’s business environment reflects a mix of established industries and emerging innovation hubs, creating a unique demand for transformation solutions that can modernize legacy systems while enabling future-ready capabilities. Organizations are balancing the need to maintain operational continuity with the urgency to adopt new technologies, making transformation complex and critical. It now includes process automation, cloud adoption, data integration, customer experience enhancement, and workforce enablement. Enterprise Modernization and the Drive for Operational Agility The primary growth factor in digital transformation solutions is the need for organizations to become more agile and responsive in a rapidly changing market. Traditional operating models often rely on fragmented systems and manual processes, which limit scalability and slow decision-making. Businesses are migrating from on-premise infrastructure to more flexible environments that support scalability, remote access, and faster deployment of applications. Repetitive and time-consuming tasks are being streamlined through digital workflows, reducing errors and improving efficiency. Businesses are investing in digital platforms that provide seamless, personalized interactions across channels. It includes online services, mobile applications, and integrated customer support systems. A centralized data strategy enables better visibility, faster insights, and more informed decision-making. Organizations are investing in training and communication to support this transition and reduce resistance. Legacy system modernization remains a significant challenge. Digital transformation solutions address this by providing migration strategies and hybrid models that balance stability with innovation. The push for operational agility reflects a broader shift toward more adaptive, responsive business models that can thrive in uncertain environments. Sustainability is influencing transformation strategies. Digital solutions are being used to optimize resource usage, reduce waste, and support environmentally responsible operations. Advanced Technologies and the Rise of Intelligent Enterprises Canadian companies are embracing various technologies to boost operational efficiency and strategic advantages. AI plays a crucial role in fostering intelligent operations, enabling organizations to foresee trends, streamline processes, and enhance results. With real-time insights, businesses can swiftly adapt to evolving conditions, while predictive analytics aids in long-term planning and managing risks effectively. The integration of technology improves daily operations and fortifies strategic decision-making, ensuring that organizations can navigate challenges and seize opportunities in a dynamic market environment. Cybersecurity is gaining increased attention as digital adoption expands. Protecting data, systems, and operations is critical for maintaining trust and ensuring business continuity. Transformation strategies now include robust security frameworks as a foundational element. IoT technologies are enabling greater connectivity across operations. Devices and systems can communicate in real time, providing valuable data that supports efficiency and performance improvements. Workforce enablement tools are also evolving. Digital collaboration platforms, remote work solutions, and knowledge management systems are helping organizations maintain productivity in flexible work environments. Integration platforms are becoming essential for connecting diverse systems and applications. These tools ensure that data flows seamlessly across the organization, supporting a unified operational model. The rise of intelligent enterprises reflects a shift toward using technology not just to automate processes but to enhance strategic decision-making and innovation. Cultural Transformation and Long-Term Business Impact Digital transformation in Canada is as much about strategy and culture as it is about technology. Successful implementation requires alignment between leadership, processes, and workforce capabilities. Leadership commitment is a critical factor. Transformation initiatives must be driven from the top, with clear vision and accountability. CEOs play a central role in setting priorities and ensuring alignment across the organization. Employees must adapt to new systems, processes, and ways of working. Partnership ecosystems are becoming more important. Businesses are collaborating with technology providers, consultants, and service partners to access expertise and accelerate implementation. The partnerships enable faster and more effective transformation. Solutions must be designed to grow with the organization, supporting expansion without requiring complete system overhauls. Organizations are defining new metrics to evaluate the success of transformation initiatives, focusing on outcomes such as efficiency, customer satisfaction, and innovation. Digital transformation solutions in Canada will continue to evolve as technology advances and business expectations change. Organizations that effectively incorporate digital capabilities into their fundamental operations will have a stronger advantage in competing and expanding. For CEOs and business leaders, digital transformation represents a fundamental shift in how value is created and delivered. It is not just about adopting new tools; it is about rethinking the entire business model to align with a digital-first world. ...Read more