Scammed by the HMRC

HMRC is cautioning small business owners to be vigilant for scams as the Self-Assessment deadline nears. Over the 12 months leading up to January 2024, the tax authority received over 207,800 reports about tax scams, with 79,000 of these concerning fraudulent tax rebates.

You could encounter a scam email claiming to be from HMRC, or a fraudster might impersonate HMRC through a phone call or text message. According to HMRC, scammers often use tactics such as promising a tax rebate, asking you to update your tax information, or threatening you with arrest for tax evasion. HMRC has provided examples of legitimate messages and contact information to assist you in identifying scams. These fraudulent activities tend to increase around the Self-Assessment deadline on January 31, so continue reading to learn how to recognise fake communications.

In an increasingly digital world, the risk of falling victim to scams has risen dramatically. One persistent threat that businesses and individuals face is fake communications pretending to be from the HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). These scams can take many forms, including emails, phone calls, and text messages, all aiming to deceive you into providing personal or financial information. In this article, we’ll explore how to recognise fraudulent HMRC communications and protect yourself from these scams.

Understanding the Risks

Scammers often use sophisticated tactics to create a sense of urgency or fear, leading you to act quickly without verifying the information. They might claim that you owe taxes, promise a refund, or require you to update your tax details immediately. These fraudulent messages can be alarming, especially if they appear to come from an official source.

Common Signs of Fake HMRC Communications

  1. Suspicious Email Addresses
    One of the easiest ways to spot a fake HMRC email is to closely examine the 'from' address. Legitimate emails from HMRC will always end with @hmrc.gov.uk. If the email comes from a different domain—such as @gmail.com or @hotmail.com—it's likely a scam.

  2. Poor Grammar and Spelling Errors
    Official HMRC communications are typically professional and well-written. If you notice spelling mistakes, awkward phrasing, or general poor grammar, it’s a strong indicator that the message is not authentic.

  3. Requests for Personal Information
    HMRC will never ask for sensitive information such as your passwords, bank details, or personal identification numbers through email or text. If the message prompts you to share personal or financial information, it’s a scam.

  4. Unsolicited Attachments or Links
    Be cautious with emails or messages containing links or attachments. Hover over the link to see the actual URL it directs you to; if it doesn’t end with @hmrc.gov.uk, avoid clicking. Scammers often use links to direct you to fraudulent websites designed to steal your information.

  5. Urgency and Threats
    Scammers often create a sense of urgency to panic you into acting quickly. Phrases such as "immediate action required" or threats of arrest for unpaid taxes should raise red flags. HMRC will never threaten you with immediate legal action via email or text.

  6. Unknown Contact Numbers
    If you receive a phone call claiming to be from HMRC, be cautious. Scammers may use spoofed numbers to trick you. Always verify the contact number by checking official HMRC contact details on their website.

  7. Letters
    If you receive a letter claiming to be from HMRC, be cautious. Scammers may use this very sneaky and more sophisticated trick. Always verify the contact number by checking official HMRC contact details on their website. See how this (source) example looks so official -HMRC1png


What to Do If You Suspect a Scam

If you receive a suspicious email, letter, message, or call:

  • Do Not Respond: Avoid engaging with the sender or caller.
  • Verify the Information: Contact HMRC directly using official contact details from their website to confirm the legitimacy of the communication.
  • Report the Scam: Forward any phishing emails to HMRC at phishing@hmrc.gov.uk, and report suspicious phone calls to your local consumer protection agency.

Staying Informed

Stay vigilant and informed about the tactics used by scammers. Regularly visit the HMRC website for updates and information on the latest scams. You can also subscribe to HMRC's newsletters or alerts to receive genuine information directly from the source. 

As technology advances, so do the methods employed by fraudsters. Being aware of the signs of fake HMRC communications is essential to safeguarding your personal and financial information. By staying informed, verifying communications, and reporting suspicious activity, you can help protect yourself and others from the growing threat of tax-related scams. Remember, when in doubt, it's always best to consult directly with HMRC. Stay alert and stay safe!