HMRC issues warning over phone call which could reduce your bank balance to £0

HMRC scam calls are skrocketing - up 84 per cent - with Phonely’s Who Called Me? platform laying bare the alarming figures for taxpayers this week.
-Credit:Reach Publishing Services Limited


HMRC has issued a warning over a rise of scams which threatens to empty your bank account. HMRC scam calls are skrocketing - up 84 per cent - with Phonely’s Who Called Me? platform laying bare the alarming figures for taxpayers this week.

Bryn Thompson, spokesperson for Phonely, said: "It’s disheartening to see scammers exploiting critical deadlines like the self-assessment period to intimidate individuals into compliance with fraudulent schemes.

"Raising awareness is crucial in disrupting these criminals and protecting the public from financial loss." One victim told Phonely: "American accented computer voice, which begins saying something along the lines of 'Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs will engage legal action if payment is not made.'"

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A second victim added: "They got very aggressive when I asked for more information." A statement from HMRC has urged caution ahead of the January 31 self assessment deadline, saying: "Customers need to be aware of the risk of falling victim to scams and should never share their HMRC login details with anyone, including a tax agent if they have one."

Six warning signs for scams include being rushed, threatened, or receiving an unexpected call, as well as asking for personal information like bank details, being told to transfer money or being offered a refund, grant or tax rebate.

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HMRC said: "HMRC does send text messages to some of our customers. In the text message we might include a link to GOV.UK information or to HMRC webchat. We advise you not to open any links or reply to a text message claiming to be from HMRC that offers you a tax refund in exchange for personal or financial details. To help fight phishing scams, send any suspicious text messages to 60599 (network charges apply) or email: phishing@hmrc.gov.uk then delete them."

It also says it will never leave a voicemail.