With the self-assessment tax deadline on 31 January fast approaching, businesses and self-employed individuals must remain vigilant against a rising wave of scams targeting taxpayers. Fraudsters often take advantage of the urgency and stress of tax filing season, posing as HMRC to steal money and sensitive information.
Common Scam Tactics
Scammers use various methods to deceive taxpayers, including:
- Phishing Emails: Emails claiming to be from HMRC, often warning of penalties or offering tax rebates, are a common ploy. These emails may include links directing you to fake websites designed to harvest your personal and financial details.
- Text Messages: Fraudulent texts may mimic official HMRC communications, urging you to click on malicious links to “verify your information” or “receive a refund.”
- Phone Calls: Impersonators may call, threatening legal action or demanding immediate payment of supposed tax debts. Some even use sophisticated techniques to make the caller ID appear legitimate.
- Social Media Messages: Fraudsters may contact individuals via social media platforms, posing as HMRC representatives and requesting sensitive data.
How to Protect Your Business
To safeguard yourself and your business from scams:
- Verify Communications: HMRC will never ask for payment details or demand immediate payment via phone, text, or email. Always verify correspondence by contacting HMRC directly through official channels.
- Avoid Clicking Links: Never click on links in unsolicited emails or texts. Instead, log in to your HMRC online account to check for genuine updates.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Forward suspicious emails to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk and texts to 60599. Report fraudulent calls to Action Fraud.
- Educate Your Team: Ensure employees know how to recognise and handle potential scams, especially those responsible for handling company finances.
- Use Secure Systems: Keep your devices and software updated with the latest security patches to reduce the risk of cyberattacks.
HMRC’s Advice
HMRC has reiterated that they will never:
- Use aggressive language or threaten arrest.
- Request payment through unconventional means such as gift cards or cryptocurrency.
- Ask for personal or financial information via text, email, or social media.
Stay Alert
As you prepare your self-assessment, take extra care to protect your business from fraud. By staying informed and cautious, you can avoid falling victim to these increasingly sophisticated scams. If you’re unsure about any communication claiming to be from HMRC, always verify before taking action.
Identify tax scam phone calls, emails and text messages – GOV.UK
