If you receive an email saying you’re owed a tax refund, don’t get excited…

 
 
Unfortunately fraudsters are conning us out of cash with this latest tax rebate scam.

Here’s what to look out for, and what to do if you have been scammed.
 
The bogus email states that you are due a tax refund, which can be claimed back immediately by clicking on a link or opening an attachment – you’re then connected to an authentic-looking HMRC/GOV.UK webpage, which requests personal information and banking details.

😥   Don’t open any link or attachment

😥   Forward the email to phishing@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk

😥  Then delete it from your inbox
 
 

What to do if you have been scammed

If you have clicked on the link and given away personal/banking details, or been conned out of money:

Contact your bank immediately

AND

Contact Action Fraud – the UK’s national fraud and crime reporting centre:

Report fraud online

Speak to an adviser:
0300 123 20 40

If you suspect a scam, but have not acted on it

e.g. suspicious emails, texts, letters or phone calls:

Contact Action Fraud so the police can take action and prevent others from becoming victims.

‘HMRC never send notifications of a tax rebate or ask you to disclose personal or payment information by email or text message.’

GOV.UK

How to spot scams!

Watch out for the tell-tale signs of bogus emails:

🙁   Sender’s email address – a scam email will not come from the legitimate HMRC/GOV.UK/Bank address.
(Be careful though, it might look similar!)

🙁  Generic greeting – not usually addressed to you personally e.g. Dear Customer…

🙁  Bad grammar and spelling mistakes.

🙁  Urgent action required – fraudsters usually ask for an immediate response.

🙁  Links – do not click on them

They will lead to bogus sites, which may look like an authentic HMRC/GOV.UK/Bank webpage, and scam emails sometimes do even include genuine links to fool you. But remember HMRC, Government and banks, will NEVER ask for personal information and passwords via email or texts.
If in doubt, call to check, or contact them online by visiting their website.  (Don’t use any phone number or website via the email link!)

🙁  Attachments – do not open them
They may contain viruses to steal personal information.
 
 

Find out more:

Avoid/report internet scams & phishing – GOV.UK

How to deal with scams, fraud & purchase problems

Pixel Privacy – A useful guide to Phishing emails – how to spot, avoid & deal with them