This coming week is Tax Identity Theft Awareness Week, and the Federal Trade Commission is providing daily tips.

First up: Tax identity theft happens when someone files a fake tax return using your personal information — like your Social Security number — to get a tax refund or a job. The first tip? File early in the tax season — if you can — to get your refund before identity thieves do. When you file, make sure you use a secure internet connection or mail your tax return directly from the post office to make it more difficult for thieves to get their hands on your personal information. Learn more at ftc.gov/taxidtheft and irs.gov/identitytheft.