IRS launches online safety campaign

The IRS, the agency whose knowledge-based security failure exposed some 100,000 taxpayer accounts to hackers earlier this year, is now preaching the security gospel.

Every Monday until the beginning of tax-filing season in January, IRS officials said they will publish tips for taxpayers on how to “protect personal and financial data online and at home.”

The first installment, on Nov. 23, offered seven basic computer security tips, from using strong passwords and security software to avoiding unsecured public Wi-Fi networks.

The second installment, dated Nov. 30, urges taxpayers to avoid phishing and malware scams sent via email.