HMRC advice to counter spoof emails or texts

Posted on 24th May 2022 by Streets -  General


Image to represent HMRC advice to counter spoof emails or texts

HMRC continues to warn of the ever-present problem of fraudulent phishing emails, suspicious phone calls and texts. These unwanted emails, phone calls and texts are being sent from all around the world and the fraudsters are continuing to find new ways to target unsuspecting taxpayers. 

These messages typically look to obtain taxpayers personal and or financial information such as passwords, credit card or bank account details. The phishing emails and texts often include a link to a bogus website encouraging the recipient to enter their personal details.

HMRC recommends that if you have the slightest doubt that an email or text is fake:

  • do not open attachments, they could contain a virus
  • do not click on links, they could take you to a fake HMRC site
  • do not disclose personal/confidential information
  • forward suspicious HMRC text messages to 60599 (charged at your network rate)
  • forward suspicious emails to the HMRC phishing team at, phishing@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk
  • check our security guidance: Dealing with HMRC Phishing and scams.

If you have suffered financial loss should contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or use their online fraud reporting tool.


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The content produced and presented by Streets is for general guidance and informational purposes only. It should not be construed as legal, tax, investment, financial or other advice. Furthermore, it should not be considered a recommendation or an offer to sell, or a solicitation of any offer to buy any securities or other form of financial asset. The information provided by Streets is of a general nature and is not specific for any individual or entity. Appropriate and tailored advice or independent research should be obtained before making any such decisions. Streets does not accept any liability for any loss or damage which is incurred from you acting or not acting as a result of obtaining Streets' visual or audible content.

Information

The content used by Streets has been obtained from or is based on sources that we believe to be accurate and reliable. Although reasonable care has been taken in gathering the necessary information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any information we publish and we accept no liability for any errors or omissions in material. You should always seek specific advice prior to making any investment, legal or tax decisions.


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