HMRC scam warning as fake emails ask for personal details | Personal Finance | Finance

HMRC has issued a stern warning to taxpayers about fraudulent emails appearing at the top of their inboxes this week. As we approach Christmas, the tax authority is urging people to disregard these deceptive messages, which are often disguised as Royal Mail delivery notifications.

One British citizen took to Twitter to share details of such an email they received. The taxpayer queried: “@HMRCcustomers I’ve received an email saying Royal Mail tried to deliver a large letter from HMRC but couldn’t. Please click to rearrange. This is a scam? ” In response, HMRC confirmed that the email was indeed a scam.

“Hi, this is not a genuine email. You need to report a tax scam email call here. You can also find detailed information about HMRC phishing and scams here.”

The taxpayer expressed gratitude for the confirmation from the tax department, replying with a simple “thank you”.

“You are welcome and thanks for contacting us . Tell us how we did by completing our short survey at http://forms.office.com/e/aBFdaJHCej and help us improve the service we can offer you. Amandine,” HMRC responded, reports Birmingham Live.

On its official website, HMRC provides a checklist to help individuals determine if the contact they’ve received is a scam. This applies to phone calls, emails, and text messages.

According to HMRC, one tell-tale sign of a scam is if it pressures you and comes across as threatening. HMRC has issued further guidance, stating that an email could potentially be a scam if it is unexpected, requests personal information such as bank details, or instructs you to transfer money. The tax authority also warns that fraudulent emails may offer a refund, tax rebate or grant.

If you have disclosed personal information, you can report this to the HMRC security team. If you’ve fallen victim to a scam and suffered financial loss, you should report it to Action Fraud, or to Police Scotland on 101 if you reside in Scotland.