Officials Urge Caution Following Tax Identity Thefts

Michigan Treasury officials say they are concerned about the recent spike in fraudulent tax returns being filed around the country.

Security experts are blaming criminal organizations that are buying and selling stolen personal information as well as log-in credentials for online tax preparation services like TurboTax.

According to the Department of Treasury, Michigan will be adding extra security precautions in coming weeks to help deter identity theft.

The Better Business Bureau in West Michigan is urging people to avoid phishing emails as a way to help reduce the risk of having their identities stolen.