HB Accountants

August

HMRC warns of real risk from scam emails

Criminal gangs are targeting taxpayers with thousands of scam emails offering bogus tax refunds. The online attacks, known as ‘phishing', have peaked during July leading to increased reports of fraud to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC).

The scam email often begins with a sentence such as ‘Following a review of your fiscal activity you are due a refund of tax of £XXX.'

They tell the recipient they are due a tax refund and ask for bank or credit card details so that the fictitious tax refund can be paid out. HMRC is warning customers about the possible dangers of falling for this scam during this phase of increased attacks on UK residents.

Lesley Strathie, HMRC Chief Executive said:
"We only ever contact customers who are due a refund in writing by post. We never use emails, telephone calls or external companies in these circumstances. I would strongly encourage anyone receiving such an email to immediately send it to us for investigation and delete it from their computer."

HB can quickly confirm your position. Contact John Neighbour on 01992 444466 (or johnn@hbaccountants.co.uk) for a free initial consultation.
 

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