IRS to e-filers: Use approved encryption

The IRS has directed e-file program participants who transmit directly to the agency’s Electronic Management System to use only IRS-approved encryption methods for the 2006 and subsequent filing seasons.Transmitters who directly submit returns to the IRS system must use the IRS Internet application or purchase and install in IRS facilities encrypted and dedicated leased lines that are federal standards-compliant and IRS-approved, the agency said recently in the Federal Register.The encryption update is aimed at IRS e-file software developers who prepare software packages for direct, dial-up transmission to IRS e-file EMS sites for individual and business electronic returns, for states participating in IRS federal/state e-file and for transmitters who have dedicated leased lines.The IRS will discontinue support for its existing analog and ISDN dial-up line services for filers of individual returns in November and for business returns in December.