Sensible words of warning from GOV.UK & HMRC this week.

Don’t give out private information (such as bank details or passwords), reply to text messages, download attachments or click on any links in emails if you’re not sure they’re genuine.

Misleading websites, emails & phone numbers

Some websites, emails or phone numbers can look like they’re part of an official government service or that they provide more help than they actually do.

This might mean you pay for services that you could get cheaper or for free if you used the official government service.  Search on gov.uk to find official government services and phone numbers – for example if you want to apply for a driving licence or a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

You can report a misleading website, email or phone number to Action Fraud or Google (if it appears as an advert in their search results).

HMRC phishing emails, texts and tax scams

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) will never use texts or emails to:

  • tell you about a tax rebate or penalty
  • ask for personal or payment information

Check HMRC’s guidance on recognising scams if you’re not sure.

Forward suspicious text messages to 60599. Text messages will be charged at your network rate.

Forward suspicious emails to HMRC phishing@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk

Report a disclosure of personal details to HMRC

Email the HMRC security.custcon@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk if you think you’ve given any personal information in reply to a suspicious email or text.

Include brief details of what you disclosed (for example name, address, HMRC User ID, password) but don’t give your personal details in the email.

We’re happy to help, if we can, speak to your usual contact at Drummond Laurie.