Don’t Fall Victim to “HMRC” Fraudsters!
A few of our clients have contacted us recently to advise that “HMRC” have contacted them via email, stating that they are due a refund and to click on a…
A few of our clients have contacted us recently to advise that “HMRC” have contacted them via email, stating that they are due a refund and to click on a link in order to receive this. Unfortunately, in today’s technological society, more and more fraudsters are using emails to scam people into disclosing their account and personal details. Luckily, our clients have been able to recognise the signs of fraud and avoided falling for this trick, but not everyone is so fortunate.
We would like to remind people that HMRC will only inform you of tax refunds through the post, or through your pay via your employer. Any emails, texts or voicemails saying that you have a tax refund are a scam. Please do not click on any links that are in these messages – many of these links will take users through to dubious websites where information can be stolen.
Here a are a few tips from HMRC on staying safe online:
1. Recognise fraudulent signs – genuine organisations such as HMRC and banks will never contact you out of the blue and ask you for your bank details, password or PIN.
2. Stay vigilant – never give out private information, reply to text messages, download attachments or follow links in emails that you weren’t expecting.
3. Take action – please forward any suspicious emails claiming to be from HMRC to phishing@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk and texts to 60599. You can also contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 to report any suspicious calls.
