Tax1099.com became the first online information return service provider to offer two-factor authentication today. Two-factor authentication increases the security of your accounts by adding an additional validation layer to the standard user name and password.
Many websites offer two-factor authentication, but the tool has not made many in-roads with online tax service providers who create and e-file forms such as the 1099-MISC and W-2. Since those providers store personal data, such as name and Social Security Number, for users and their customers, they must provide the maximum amount of security to protect that data.
"As we reviewed our security, we determined that adding two-factor authentication would enhance what we already had in place," said Ed Pratt, Vice President of Business Development for TechAtlantis, Inc, parent company of Tax1099.com. "Our data host already provides SSAE-16 certified security, so including the additional layer of security to enter the site will maximize the protection of our clients' data."
Recent news has shown how easily hackers can obtain data, whether through traditional programming hacks or by social engineering. In just the past few months, companies such as Apple, Home Depot, and Google have experienced security breaches that exposed customers' data. After the release of 5 million gmail user names and passwords, Google suggested using their two-factor authentication system to help minimize the risk.
While there are many types of two-factor authentication available, Tax1099.com will use an SMS one-time password as the additional validation of the user's credentials. In this type of authentication, the user registers his or her mobile phone number on the site and passes the initial test by supplying the code sent from the site via text message. Each time the user logs in to the site with the user name and password, the system generates a text message with a code valid for 60 seconds. The user enters the code in the site, and the site permits the user to proceed.
"Two-factor authentication provides another barrier to having information stolen," said Pratt. "We also encourage our users to create strong passwords, change them every month, and to secure their phone with a PIN or password as well. Each protective tool you use to prevent access provides that much more security."
Pratt also mentioned that the best passwords are long; include letters, numbers, and special characters; and do not include any personal information or complete words. Keep passwords secure, and do not maintain them in the same location as your computer.
The addition of two-factor authentication to their site places Tax1099.com on the forefront of tax software companies, with the strongest security in the industry to protect customers who e-file information and employment tax returns.
About TechAtlantis, Inc
TechAtlantis, Inc, provides IRS-approved electronic tax filing services to businesses and individuals through several websites. Tax1099.com provides full service capabilities, including the import of data from accounting and business systems, the creation, e-filing, and delivery of 1099s, 1098s, 1042-S, W2s, 940, 941, and 944 forms. EZ2290.com provides Heavy Vehicle Usage Tax filing for owner/operators, brokers, fleet managers, and their accountants.EZExtension.com allows individual and business filers to file for an extension of their filing date. EZIFTA.com helps truck owners conform to multi-state regulations requiring their fuel taxes be paid appropriately in each state. FBAROnline.com permits owners of bank accounts outside of the US to state that ownership as required to the US Department of the Treasury.
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