HMRC issues ‘alert’ on reports of sophisticated scam
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has sounded the alarm over reports of a scam in which criminals pretend to be the UK tax authority - sharing one key thing to look out for. Scammers use all sorts of ruses to try and trick unsuspecting victims into parting with their hard-earned cash. Some will even look to spoof Government departments to try to give the impression that it's a legitimate and important message. HMRC issued a warning on X this week about one of them, urging people to be vigilant and flag any suspicious requests. The department wrote: "We’re receiving increased reports of customers receiving scam text messages claiming to be from HMRC, asking for additional information to complete a cryptoassets declaration."
TL;DR
- HMRC is receiving increased reports of scam text messages claiming to be from the tax authority.
- Scammers are asking for additional information to complete a cryptoassets declaration.
- HMRC will never ask for personal or financial information via text message.
- If a request seems suspicious, do not click links and report it to HMRC.
- Suspicious text messages should be forwarded to 60599, and emails to [email protected].
- HMRC also warns against inaccurate tax advice circulating online, especially from 'finfluencers'.
- Always use official sources like GOV.UK for accurate and trustworthy tax guidance.