HMRC – PHONE CALL SCAMS

In March 2018 we wrote about e-mail phishing scams that were on the rounds supposedly from HMRC (http://bit.ly/BWPhishingScam).  This is something that is still ongoing with HMRC recently blocking a widespread fraud technique where calls appeared to be from genuine tax department centre numbers.

Automated phone calls have been received sounding very similar to the PPI spam calls, “Hello, this is a message for the customer or authorised representative of reference number……, please call HMRC back on 0300 XXX XXXX.”  Upon checking the number, to be cautious, then they are seem to be linked to HMRC.

There has been a staggering increase in the number of such incidents been reported to HMRC in the past year.  In 2016/17, 407 incidents were reported increasing to 104,774 in 2018/19.  Through working with network providers, they have blocked more than 1,050 fraudulent phone numbers.  The result was that in April nearly all such spoof calls were eliminated, reducing fraud reports by 25% compared to March.

HMRC have advised that they will only ever call in connection with outstanding debts where the taxpayer is already aware, having received a letter first or having reported such liabilities on the self-assessment return.  In addition, they have changed their procedures so that card details no longer need to be read to an operator over the phone.

If you are unsure of any communication received from HMRC, phone call/e-mail then send details to phishing@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk and wait a their response and guidance or contact your Accountant.

Source: Accounting Web