The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance reminded New Yorkers today, Data Privacy Day, that they must be vigilant and proactive to help ensure that their private information is secure both online and at home.

“With the tax season underway, it’s imperative that taxpayers do their part to help prevent confidential information from falling into the wrong hands,” said Acting Commissioner Nonie Manion. “The Tax Department uses advanced encryption, and a variety of other security measures, firewalls, and intrusion-detection systems to protect sensitive information, but taxpayers also have a vital role to play in safeguarding data.”

Taxpayers can help prevent identity theft and tax fraud by securing their computers with firewall protection, as well as anti-virus and anti-spyware software.

The Tax Department provides a variety of useful tips and information on its website www.tax.ny.gov in both English and Spanish.

Online resources

Protect your private information online (in Spanish)

Common scam tactics and how to spot them (in Spanish)

How to respond to a Tax Department notice or letter (in Spanish)

Safeguard sensitive data while shopping online or donating to charities (in Spanish)

Report scams, fraud, and identity theft

Video resources

NYS fights refund fraud and identity theft