Scam HMRC emails have been around for years and they don’t seem to be stopping. In some cases people are even receiving texts.
The emails tell you that you’re owed a tax rebate and then requests your personal information in attempt to steal bank details.
Nick Lodge, Director General of Benefits and Credits, HMRC, said:
“HMRC will never ask people to disclose personal information by email. We have cracked down on phishing emails and scam websites, but the fraudsters’ methods are constantly changing, so people must remain vigilant. The only way to renew tax credits and report changes online is on GOV.UK.”
Last year over 51,000 messages were reported to HMRC which is probably only a fraction of the real number sent. The number reported is double that for the same period in 2013.
With HMRC and other agencies shutting down 8877 scam websites last year it’s clearly a big problem which everyone needs to be aware of.
The message is be careful and always check before handing out your personal information.
You can report scam HMRC emails and texts here.
