Scammers have become increasingly sophisticated in their tactics and are using various communication methods such as letters, emails, text messages, and phone calls to catch businesses off guard.
Alert: two recent scams
It’s important to stay informed in order to avoid the latest scamming techniques. Here’s a couple of recent scams we’ve been made aware of:
- Please be aware the letter pictured below is a scam that is being used on the run up to the end of the tax year.
- Self Assessment payment scams. Taxpayers who are ready to pay their tax return for the 2022 – 2023 tax year can be scammed by an email, phone call or text message offering a tax rebate.Note: HMRC will not email, text or phone a customer to tell them that they are due a refund or ask them to request a refund. Customers receive repayments into their chosen bank account, and can see any transactions in their online HMRC account and in the HMRC app.
These phishing scams are designed to use personal details for selling on to criminals, or to access people’s bank accounts.
Do you’re due-diligence, don’t rush into anything, take your time and check HMRC scams advice on GOV.UK.
What to watch out for
As well as typical signs such as typos and hidden website addresses (in the example below), the scammers will often threaten legal action or promised tax rebates to lure unsuspecting victims into disclosing personal and financial information.
Things to look out for:
- Verify the authenticity of the message or communication by contacting HMRC directly through their official channels only.
- Do not share any personal or financial details, pledges, or payments without verifying and confirming the legitimacy of the request’s source.
- Be wary of unsolicited calls, emails, or messages asking for your personal details or immediate payment.
- Keep your software and security measures updated and store sensitive financial records and information securely.
By adopting these measures, you can avoid falling into the scammers traps.
Our expert team is also available to provide support and guidance on safeguarding your business.
Get in touch if you need any assistance.
