Guidance: what the FTC Safeguards Rule asks of tax preparers
The FTC's small-business guide explains that covered businesses, including tax preparation firms and mortgage brokers, must keep a written information security program, train staff, monitor service providers and report certain breaches.
Why it matters
This is guidance, not an incident. Many written plans were drafted before staff started using AI chatbots, so they may not say anything about them.
What to do
- Add AI tools to your written security plan and risk assessment.
- Include AI safety in staff security training and refreshers.
- Treat AI providers like other service providers that may receive customer information.
Sources
- ftc.gov — https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/resources/ftc-safeguards-rule-what-your-business-needs-know