HMRC warns of phishing emails
HMRC has tweeted a number of times recently continuing its campaign to warn taxpayers of the danger of phishing emails. Phishing emails are sent by fraudsters who try and trick recipients into thinking an email has been sent by HMRC. HMRC is aware of numerous instances of phishing emails being sent from around the world that seek to acquire sensitive information such as passwords, credit card or bank account details using phoney links. HMRC never sends notifications of a tax rebate by email, or ask you to disclose personal or payment information by email.
HMRC has published a number of tips to help taxpayers recognise phishing emails. This includes checking the address of the sender, for examplerefunds@hmrc.org.uk is a fraudulent address. HMRC addresses end in @hmrc.gov.uk although some fraudsters can also replicate this ending in phishing emails.
The phishing emails sometimes use phrases like urgent action required. They often don’t use a proper salutation for example using a generic greeting such asDear Customer and can feature spelling mistakes and poor grammar. The emails can also include attachments, that if clicked on, could release viruses that access your personal information.