Anthony Alika and Sonia Alika pleaded guilty to accessing IRS accounts and obtaining tax information to file fraudulent tax returns, according to the report. In addition, Mr. Alika pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit money laundering. He could serve a maximum of 20 years in prison. Also, Ms. Alika pleaded guilty to illegally structuring withdrawals to get around reporting requirements, and she could face up to 10 years in prison, according to the report.
The pair targeted the “Get Transcript” program, which allows taxpayers to check their tax history online. The breach was originally reported in May 2015, when the IRS reported 114,000 taxpayers were affected. In February, the IRS revised that number to exceed 700,000 individuals.
More articles on data breaches:
What’s driving healthcare attacks?
Wyoming Medical Center email breach affected nearly 3,200 patients
Oneida Health Center breach compromises 2,700 patients’ information
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.