HMRC scams warning as fraudsters target victims with fake Royal Mail messages and emails

HMRC is warning people against scams as fake Royal Mail messages are doing the rounds.

The department is urging anyone who has received the fraud emails or texts to delete them. The warning comes after a member of the public contacted HMRC on social media to ask if a message they had received was genuine.

The person explained how they got an email saying Royal Mail tried to deliver a letter from HMRC. However, it was confirmed that this was a scam and not from HMRC or Royal Mail, reports BirminghamLive.

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The customer asked via X, formerly Twitter: “@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?”

HMRC then replied to the taxpayer, confirming it was fraudulent correspondence. HMRC said: “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.”

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On its website, HMRC explains: “To help our investigations report all HMRC related phishing emails, suspicious phone calls and text messages. Even if you get the same or similar scam contacts often, report them.

“Do not open attachments or click any links in an unexpected email or text message, as they may contain malicious software or direct you to a misleading website. Delete any emails or texts once you’ve reported them.”

It also adds: “HMRC does send text messages to some of our customers. In the text message we might include a link to GOV.UK information or to HMRC webchat. HMRC will never ask for personal or financial information when we send text messages. We advise you not to open any links or reply to a text message claiming to be from HMRC that offers you a tax refund in exchange for personal or financial details.

“To help fight phishing scams, you should send any suspicious text messages to 60599 (network charges apply) or email phishing@hmrc.gov.uk then delete them.”