Scammers are sending people fraudulent emails pretending to offer people a 'tax refund' from HM Revenue & Customs. The Government has issued a warning about the con which criminals use to try and steal personal details.
Included in the emails is a link which says the recipient can claim a tax refund, Which? reports. Once the link is clicked, a website opens with forms to fill in personal details.
Which? said one example of a "dodgy email" used "HMRC branding to try to appear legitimate", while stating: "After the last annual calculations of your fiscal activity, we have determined that you are eligible to receive a tax refund."
HMRC says: "HMRC will never send notifications by email about tax rebates or refunds. Do not: visit the website; open any attachments; disclose any personal or payment information.
"Fraudsters may spoof a genuine email address or change the ‘display name’ to make it appear genuine. If you are unsure, forward it to us and then delete it."
The tax authority adds: "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."
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Details of suspicious emails should be forwarded to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk for investigation. "To help us deal with your email as quickly as possible, you should give details of what you’re reporting in the subject line (for example ‘Suspicious email address’)," HMRC says.
"We may share your email address and phone number with other organisations to close down the scam."
