Posted by James Pearson on 04 Jul 2012
Beware of Fake HMRC Tax Refund Emails
As you will know April saw the end to the tax year, and therefore HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) have started sending out notifications about 2011/12 Tax Returns. However, among these genuine messages there are also fake emails being circulated that are asking individuals for their bank details.
Although the fake emails appear to be sent from HMRC, the contents of the messages are different. Some of the emails will state that the recipient has qualified to receive a tax refund, whilst others will claim that the agency has identified an error in the calculation of the recipient’s tax. The emails will include a link that redirects the taxpayer to a bogus webpage which has been designed to look like the official HMRC website.
Hoaxers behind this “phishing” scam will automatically be able to collect any banking and personal details the victim submits.
HMRC have confirmed that they never send out tax refund notifications or personal information requests by email.
You can find out more by visiting the HMRC website at: http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/security/examples.htm
If you would like to discuss ways in which we could help you or your business, please contact us on 01962 856 990 or customerservice@taxinnovations.com.
See also…
Companies House and HMRC Scam Alert
Don’t Get Caught on The Net by Tax Rebate Phishing Scam
HMRC Issue Fraudulent Email Warning
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