Privacy safety center: exactly what to blur before sharing screenshots

[RefundHubTeam]

Refund screenshots can contain more private information than people realize. This guide keeps the forum useful without exposing members.

What this guide covers

• Blur full names, addresses, SSNs, ITINs, exact refund amounts, filing status if combined with other identifiers, control numbers, barcodes, QR codes, and document locator numbers.
• Leave visible only the generic status wording, tax year, transcript code numbers, and non-identifying dates needed for timeline comparison.
• Do not upload full IRS letters. Type the notice number and a short summary instead.
• If someone asks for personal data, report it and do not continue the conversation publicly.

How to use this thread

• Before posting, crop the image to only the relevant status or transcript section.
• Use marker blocks, not transparent blur, over sensitive fields.
• When in doubt, type the wording manually instead of uploading a screenshot.

Official/source links

• IRS phishing and scams

RefundHub is an independent taxpayer-to-taxpayer community. This thread is informational and is not IRS, legal, tax, or financial advice.