Online tax scams are a growing concern, with fraudsters targeting Self Assessment customers through various deceptive methods. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has received over 130,000 reports of tax scams in the past year, with nearly 58,000 incidents involving fake tax rebates.
These scams often involve impersonating HMRC, with fraudsters using texts, emails, and phone calls to deceive individuals. Some scams offer fake rebates, while others claim that individuals need to update their tax details or face immediate arrest for tax evasion.
It’s important for individuals to know that they can file their tax return before the 31st of January deadline without needing to make payment until later, unless they choose to. Filing earlier allows individuals to determine their tax obligations sooner and potentially receive refunds promptly.
In light of the alarming increase in tax scams, it’s essential for individuals to remain vigilant, verify the authenticity of communications from HMRC, and report any suspicious activity to help combat fraud.
In addition to the existing warnings about tax scams, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) emphasises that they will never contact customers via email, text, or phone to inform them of a refund or ask them to request one. Instead, customers receive repayments directly into their designated bank accounts, visible in their online HMRC account and app.
In the past year, HMRC has reported a significant increase in malicious web pages aimed at deceiving taxpayers and stealing personal information or money. These fraudulent sites mimic genuine websites, tricking individuals into divulging their details. This information is then exploited to access bank accounts or sold on the dark web.
To protect against scams, HMRC advises customers to remain vigilant, safeguard their personal information, and report any suspicious activity. To protect your information, use strong and unique passwords for all accounts and take a moment to think before sharing money or personal details.
Recognise suspicious communications and refrain from giving out private information, replying, or clicking on links or attachments. Verify the authenticity of contacts by checking on GOV.UK and not relying solely on caller ID, as numbers can be spoofed.
What Are Examples of Tax Scams?
Tax scams come in various forms, and being aware of their tactics is crucial for protecting yourself from falling victim to fraud. Here are some examples of common tax scams:
QR codes: Scammers may use QR codes in emails or correspondence to redirect you to fake websites where they attempt to gather personal information. HMRC uses QR codes primarily to provide guidance on GOV.UK, and they will never ask you to input personal information through QR codes.
Text messages: HMRC occasionally sends text messages to customers, but they will never ask for personal or financial information through text messages. Beware of text scams offering tax refunds or refunds related to COVID-19, and never click on links or provide personal details.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) scams: Scammers may use the pandemic as a pretext for tax scams, such as offering fake tax refunds or rebates related to COVID-19. HMRC will never send notifications about tax rebates or refunds via email. Beware of emails asking you to click on links, open attachments, or disclose personal or payment information.
Suspicious phone calls: Scammers may use automated phone calls to threaten legal action or offer tax refunds, asking for bank or credit card information. HMRC advises ending such calls immediately and not engaging with the caller.
WhatsApp messages: HMRC may send occasional tax-related reminders via WhatsApp, but they will not communicate with you for any other reason using WhatsApp. Be cautious of messages claiming to be from HMRC on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), offering tax refunds or requesting personal information.
By staying vigilant and cautious of these common tax scams, you can protect yourself and your personal information from falling into the hands of fraudsters.
