The Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR) announced that due to increased identify theft protection, $51.3 million in fraudulent and erroneous refunds and credits were blocked last tax season. In the past 10 years, the DOR has stopped more than $416 million in potential fraud.
The DOR implemented new identity verification steps last year. The system uses analytics to identify tax returns that indicate possible identity theft. If there is a concern, the DOR sends a letter to the tax filer requesting they complete a quiz, enter a unique PIN or submit documentation.