Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) – A Crucial Security Tool for Tax Professionals

The IRS now requires tax professionals to secure sensitive information with 2FA! Learn about TaxBandits' security solution for this!

Stephanie Glanville | July 3, 2024 | Read time: 7 minute(s) | IRS Updates, Tax Professional Account, TaxBandits Features | No Comments

Data security is paramount in this era where digital security threats keep evolving and evolving every day. Especially as a tax professional dealing with the data of numerous clients, having robust security measures in place is inevitable.

Cybercriminals are seeking more taxpayer data to file fraudulent tax returns, and they are specifically targeting tax professionals and businesses. It is essential for all tax professionals, whether working in a large firm or as a sole practitioner, and every Authorized IRS e-file Provider to prioritize data security. Everyone should be well aware of the security threats and safeguard measures.

Recognizing this need, the IRS insists that tax professionals implement various security protocols to prevent data loss, identity theft, and potential tax fraud. One such security measure that TaxBandits insists on is Multi-Factor Authentication, also known as Two-Factor Authentication (2FA).

In this blog, we’ll explore what Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is, how it works, and how it can bolster the data security of your TaxBandits account.

What is Two-Factor Authentication?

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) enhances the security of the sign-in process by requiring account holders to provide two different types of identification before gaining access. First, you must enter your password as usual. Following that, you will be prompted to enter a randomly generated 6-digit code from the authentication app on your preferred device or sent to your mobile number.

Benefits of Enabling 2FA:

Mitigates Password Vulnerabilities: Even if passwords are compromised through phishing or other means, 2FA ensures that additional verification is required to access the account.
Enhanced Protection: Provides a robust defense against unauthorized access and strengthens overall account security.
Compliance: Meets regulatory requirements for securing sensitive information.

Why Does the IRS Mandate Two-Factor Authentication?

As mentioned earlier, the IRS requires tax professionals to enable 2FA in online e-file software they use in order to provide an additional layer of security for taxpayer information. Here are some of the key reasons why the IRS mandates 2FA.

1. Increased Security: Requiring multiple forms of verification, such as a password and a code sent to a mobile device, 2FA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access to taxpayer accounts and sensitive information.

2. Extenuating Identity Theft: Identity theft is a major concern during tax filing, where personal and financial information is exchanged. 2FA helps verify the user’s identity, reducing the likelihood of fraudulent tax returns and unauthorized access to tax records.

3. Protecting Taxpayer Data: Given the vast amounts of sensitive taxpayer data handled by the IRS, 2FA serves as a safeguard against cybercriminals attempting to steal this information for financial gain or other malicious purposes.

4. Compliance with Security Standards: 2FA is increasingly recommended by cybersecurity experts and regulatory bodies as a standard security practice.

2FA From TaxBandits

At TaxBandits, we understand the critical role of secure authentication in protecting your sensitive information. Our 2FA implementation is designed to be both robust and straightforward.

Enabling Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) in your TaxBandits account adds a very important layer of security, ensuring enhanced protection while enabling you file with confidence!

TaxBandits offers several 2FA options, including email-based verification codes, authentication apps (such as Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, Authy by Twilio, and LastPass by GoTo), and recovery codes. This flexibility allows you to choose the method that best suits your needs.

Additionally, our software incorporates the ‘Remember this Device’ feature, which allows you to skip the 2FA on your trusted device for a period of time. This can be extremely handy during the peak season.

To learn more about how to enable two-factor authentication for your TaxBandits account, click here.

TaxBandits is Your Trusted Partner for Secure Tax E-Filing

Having an additional step in your sign in process may sound a bit tedious. But, protecting your tax information with 2FA is not just a good practice –it’s a necessity!

Data security is always our top priority. By offering a secure e-filing solution that incorporates 2FA, we at TaxBandits ensure your data is protected while simplifying the authentication process. This intensified security provides reassurance and meets strict industry security standards and IRS regulatory guidelines.

Ready to experience the ease and security of TaxBandits? Sign up today and take the first step towards a safer e-filing experience!