The IRS is urging tax practitioners to secure remote locations using a virtual private network (VPN) to protect against cyber intruders, especially now that more people are working remotely due to the coronavirus pandemic.
A VPN provides a secure, encrypted tunnel to transmit data between a remote user via the internet and the company network. Without a VPN, tax professionals risk remote takeovers by cyberthieves, giving criminals access to the company's network simply by accessing an employee’s remote internet.
The IRS recommends tax professionals seek out the help of cybersecurity experts. For tips and resources, click here.