Monthly CPA Newsletter : August 2026

August 2026 D Tax Accounting | CPA & Advisor Newsletter 

IRS Warns Tax Professionals: 2026 Identity Theft Threats Are Evolving - What CPAs Should Do Now

The IRS and Security Summit partners have issued a renewed warning to tax professionals about evolving identity theft and data security threats. The 2026 “Protect Your Clients; Protect Yourself” campaign focuses on emerging scams targeting tax professionals, stronger security safeguards, and what firms should do if client data is compromised.

For CPAs and accounting firms, the risk extends beyond individual clients. A successful attack can expose sensitive taxpayer information, compromise the firm's systems, and potentially put professional credentials such as EFINs, PTINs, and CAF numbers at risk.

What New Threats Should CPAs Watch For?

The IRS is highlighting several scams that tax professionals should be particularly cautious about in 2026.

Fake IRS communications: Criminals may impersonate the IRS through email, text messages, phone calls, direct messages, or spoofed caller IDs to obtain sensitive information or encourage users to click malicious links.

Fake new clients: A fraudster may pose as a prospective client and send what appears to be a tax document or financial attachment. These “new client” schemes can be designed to gain access to a firm's systems.

EFIN, PTIN and CAF scams: Criminals may specifically target the identification numbers and credentials used by tax professionals to access tax-related systems or file fraudulent returns.

Social media tax misinformation: The IRS is also warning about misleading tax advice circulating online. Clients may be encouraged to claim credits or deductions for which they do not qualify, potentially creating compliance problems for both taxpayers and their preparers.

What If a Data Breach Occurs?

Speed matters if a tax practice suspects that taxpayer information has been stolen.

The IRS recommends that affected tax professionals contact their local IRS Stakeholder Liaison to report the incident. Prompt reporting can allow the IRS to take steps to help prevent fraudulent returns from being filed using stolen client information. Tax professionals should also follow applicable state data-breach reporting requirements.

What Should CPA Firms Do Now?

The IRS recommends that tax professionals review their security practices and remain especially cautious when receiving unexpected requests for information or access.

Key steps include:

  • Use multi-factor authentication wherever available.

  • Train employees to recognize phishing and spear-phishing attempts.

  • Verify unexpected requests from clients before opening attachments or clicking links.

  • Protect EFINs, PTINs, CAF numbers and other professional credentials.

  • Keep antivirus, firewalls and other security protections current.

  • Maintain secure backups of important business and client information.

  • Review and update the firm's Written Information Security Plan (WISP).

A WISP is not optional. Federal law requires tax professionals to create, implement and maintain an information security plan designed to protect client information. The IRS notes that the plan should be appropriate for the size, complexity and sensitivity of the firm's operations.

The Bottom Line for CPAs

Cybersecurity is now an essential part of running a tax practice. The latest IRS warnings demonstrate that criminals continue to adapt their methods, making employee awareness, strong authentication, secure systems and a current WISP increasingly important.

CPAs should use the IRS's 2026 campaign as an opportunity to review their firm's security procedures before the next filing season rather than waiting for an incident to expose weaknesses.

How D Tax Accounting Can Help

At D Tax Accounting, we understand the importance of maintaining accurate, organized and compliant financial operations. Our team works with individuals and businesses on tax preparation, accounting, bookkeeping and tax planning while helping clients stay prepared throughout the year.

For CPAs and business owners reviewing their tax and accounting needs, professional support can help keep financial records organized and make tax compliance more manageable.