HM Revenue & Customs has issued a warning to be vigilant following reports that thieves are making phone calls pretending to be the taxman.
Fraudsters are reported to be calling taxpayers, telling them they are eligible for a rebate. They go on to ask for bank card details before attempting to take money from the bank account.
These phone scams are an extension of regular ‘phishing’ attempts via email. HMRC claim to have shut down around 180 bogus websites in the last three months alone. These websites are set up to make scam emails seem more authentic.
If you receive a phone call from HMRC offering a tax refund, it is a scam. They only ever notify taxpayers in writing. If you get such a call, never give up your personal details and notify the police immediately.
