HMRC is warning taxpayers against an abundance of fake e-mails currently in circulation.
Thousands of fraudulent e-mails have been sent in the lead up to the 31st January tax deadline, informing the recipient that they are due a tax refund and directing them to an online form where they are asked to provide bank or credit card details.
Such e-mails currently bear particular risk as individuals will be genuinely waiting to hear from HMRC as to whether or not they can expect a tax refund.
However, HMRC has stressed it will only ever contact those that are due a tax refund by post and would never use e-mails, telephone calls as a means of contact, nor would they use an external company.
If you are the recipient of a suspected fake e-mail, you should forward it on to HMRC for investigation at phishing@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk , before deleting it. Under no circumstances should it be acted upon, as those that do so risk having money stolen as well as having their personal details sold on to third parties.
For further information or advice, please contact PAULETTE THOMAS, Head of Tax, on 01244 404420 or e-mail paulette.thomas@champion-accountants.co.uk
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