With many businesses recovering from the challenges of the COVID 19 crisis it is vital to remain extra vigilant about the current surge of HMRC scams. Criminals are taking advantage of many individuals and businesses who have been dealing with financial insecurity and uncertainty – using more and more sophisticated methods.
The current known scams include (but are not limited to)
- Tax rebate or refund scams usually by text or telephone
- Tax email phishing scams
- Tax scam text messages
- Fake PAYE letters
There are several ways to help avoid these scams
- Hang up if you receive a suspicious recorded message
- If you are unsure if you are speaking with HMRC ask if you can call them back
- Always use an advertised HMRC number to call back
- Check email addresses on suspicious looking emails
- Avoid clicking on links that you are not expecting – use a secure browser and log into your HMRC account directly
Things to bear in mind
- HMRC will never contact you via whatsapp
- HMRC will not notify you of a rebate in the message of their email
- Always be suspicious if someone requests personal or payment details over the phone
- If you are being put under any pressure by the person on the telephone, this should raise a red flag
If you have any concerns regarding any correspondence from HMRC please contact us. HMRC provide a useful guide with examples.