It’s crunch time for CPA firms across California. Deadlines are looming, inboxes are overflowing, and cloud accounting platforms are working overtime.
But there’s one thing many firms overlook in the rush to file returns and finalize financials:
Cybersecurity.
If your practice uses cloud-based accounting software like QuickBooks Online, Xero, or Drake, it’s time to double-check your digital defenses. Tax season isn’t just busy for CPAs — it’s prime hunting season for cybercriminals, too.
At Cybersecure California, we’re here to raise awareness and protect the 1 million businesses that keep California running. And that includes the professionals we trust with our finances.
📡 Why Cloud Accounting Is a Target
The convenience of cloud platforms is undeniable — remote access, automated backups, integrations with payroll and invoicing tools. But that convenience can also introduce new vulnerabilities if your systems aren’t properly secured.
Cybercriminals know that during tax season:
- CPAs are distracted
- Sensitive data is flying back and forth
- Deadlines make people more likely to click fast and think later
That’s a dangerous combination — especially when client SSNs, banking info, tax IDs, and payroll records are involved.
⚠️ Top Cyber Risks CPA Firms Face During Tax Season
1. Phishing Attacks Impersonating Clients or the IRS
Cybercriminals craft emails that look like last-minute document requests, payment confirmations, or tax warnings. These are designed to trick your team into clicking malicious links or sharing login credentials.
2. Compromised Cloud Logins
If your staff is reusing passwords, skipping MFA, or accessing systems on personal devices, your accounting software could be just one compromised login away from a breach.
3. Unsecured File-Sharing or E-signature Tools
Sending tax returns, W-2s, or 1099s over unencrypted email? That’s a compliance risk. Even widely-used e-signature platforms can be exploited if settings aren’t configured properly.
4. Weak Permissions Inside Accounting Software
Many firms grant full admin access to everyone. That increases the odds of accidental changes, unauthorized data exposure, or an internal compromise.
🛡️ What CPA Firms Should Check Before April 15
Don’t wait for a breach to happen during your busiest week. Take a few minutes now to check:
✅ 1. MFA Is Enabled for All Cloud Logins
Multi-factor authentication is one of the easiest, most effective ways to stop unauthorized access.
✅ 2. Staff Know How to Spot Phishing
Run a quick internal reminder: no clicking unknown links, double-check all tax-related emails, and verify suspicious requests with a phone call.
✅ 3. You’re Using Secure File-Sharing
Avoid sending sensitive docs over regular email. Use encrypted portals, secure cloud links, or document management systems with access control.
✅ 4. Admin Access Is Limited
Only give admin rights to those who need it. Review user roles in your accounting platform and remove or downgrade unnecessary access.
✅ 5. Backups Are Running (and Recoverable)
Even in the cloud, backups matter. Make sure you have a secondary backup — either locally or in a separate cloud environment — and that it’s tested.
✅ 6. Your Cybersecurity Partner Is on Speed Dial
If something goes wrong — a phishing attack, a data loss, a system crash — you need a trusted partner to help you recover fast.
📊 Don’t Let a Cyber Attack Derail Your Busy Season
Your clients trust you to be accurate, confidential, and reliable — especially during tax time. A single breach could damage more than just your systems — it could hurt your reputation, compliance status, and bottom line.
🔍 Not Sure Where Your Firm Stands?
That’s why Synergy Computing offers FREE cybersecurity assessments for CPA firms across California. We’ll help you:
- Identify gaps in your cloud accounting setup
- Lock down access controls and login security
- Make sure your tools are secure and compliant
- Train your team to spot risks before they click
👉 Click here to schedule your free assessment
Or call 805-967-8744 to talk with a cybersecurity expert who understands the pressures of tax season — and how to keep your systems running safely.
You protect your clients’ finances.
We help protect your firm.
Let’s make this tax season your most secure one yet.