As we enter tax season again, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) have sent a vital warning about an increase in fraud. Scammers flood phone lines with fake tax refund offers and payment demands. The aim is to steal information about individuals and their banking systems. Here’s an article that provides more information about these scams, explains the new algorithms being used, and outlines what you can do to protect yourself.
Understanding the Scams
Arimany: Fraudsters lie in wait for us taxpayers using different strategies. Common methods include:
One way to introduce the virus onto your system is through: Phishing emails impersonate HMRC and claim that you’re owed a tax refund. These emails typically include links to fraudulent sites intended to plunder your personal information.
Fake phone calls: People pretending to be HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) threatening legal action or immediate payment. They might also write in a threatening and intimidating manner to victims.
Text Messages (SMS): You’re due a tax rebate or owe a payment; click a link or call a number.
Recent Developments
HMRC said it has seen a “huge increase” in scam reports over the past 12 months. People made more than 200,000 referrals, many involving bogus tax refund offers. The NCSC said fraud attempts impersonating HMRC were among the most reported email scams.
And we covered a high-tech trick: fake QR codes. HMRC warns that scammers are sending letters that appear to come from the tax authority, telling readers to scan a QR code (to check their identity). The code directs to a fraudulent website, with the goal of stealing personal data.
How to Identify a Scam
To keep yourself safe, stay vigilant, and look for these warning signs:
Unsolicited Contact: HMRC will never ask you out of the blue for any personal information about tax refunds or penalties.
Requests for Personal Information: If someone asks you to send personal or financial information through email, text or phone, be careful.
Threatening Language: Threats of legal measures or arrest are common tactics among scammers, who rely on intimidation tactics to force you into compliance.
Generic Greetings: HMRC will always address you by name and never use phrases such as “Dear Customer”.
Protective Measures
To protect yourself, be vigilant and look for these red flags:
Check if the message is genuine: If you receive a suspicious message, contact HMRC directly – and use official contact details.
Long icon Do not click on links: Do not click on links or download attachments from unknown or unexpected sources;
Report Anything Suspicious: Forward anything you think looks suspicious to [email protected] and text 60599. You are not supposed to paid tax report scam calls at official HMRC site.
Act now, keep yourself updated: Regularly visit the HMRC guidance on spotting a scam or phishing email.
