The UK Tax Office has warned of a new scam aimed at tricking customers applying for tax credits into surrendering personal and financial information.
Now being phased out in favor of a new universal credit system, low-income households can claim tax credits to help with living expenses.
However, the U.S. Revenue and Customs Service (HMRC) has warned that fraudsters are using the July 31 renewal deadline and other tactics to trick claimants into giving them money and personal information.
For more information on HMRC Tax Fraud, see HMRC Scam Calls Surge 234% in One Year.
“Tax fraud comes in many forms and we urge our customers to be aware of the tactics used by scammers and never panic,” said Myrtle Lloyd, Director of Customer Service at HMRC. .
“If someone contacts you claiming to be from HMRC and asking you to provide personal information or send money in a hurry, beware. Find out how to report a crime and help fight these crimes. “
Victims may receive phishing emails or text messages claiming that they risk losing their payment if they do not enter their details or that direct debit payments do not work. You may also receive phishing messages from her that promise fictitious tax refunds or bogus subsidies or assistance. It could also be said that the National Insurance Number was used for fraud.
HMRC says some individuals have even received fraudulent calls threatening arrest if they do not pay the “taxes” they are obliged to pay.
As with any social engineering attack, scammers try to create a sense of urgency that encourages victims to make unwise decisions. Another important factor is to capitalize on big events such as the UK’s widely advertised deadline to switch from tax credits to universal credits.
According to National Cyber Security Center (NCSC) statistics cited by HMRC, the tax office was the third most impersonated government agency in 2022, behind the NHS and TV licenses.
HMRC urged the public not to click on spam links or download attachments and to always check the authenticity of contacts on Gov.uk. If you are unsure if a text message is fraudulent, we encourage you to forward it to 60599. Also, suspicious emails should be sent to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk and tax fraud calls should be reported to the UK Government.
If money is stolen, victims should immediately contact their bank and report the incident to Action Fraud.
