HMRC urges 150,000 people to become 'less of a target' as scam soars

HMRC has issued an urgent warning over 150,000 people being targeted with fake tax rebates. Fraudsters are targeting people with offers of tax refunds or demanding payment of tax to get hold of personal information and banking details.

Scams advice from HMRC sees taxpayers told to "protect" themselves, adding: "Criminals are cunning – protect your information. Take a moment to think before parting with your money or information. Use strong and different passwords on all your accounts so criminals are less able to target you."

It also urges taxpayers to "recognise", adding: "If a phone call, text or email is suspicious or unexpected, don’t give out private information or reply, and don’t download attachments or click on links. Check on GOV.UK that the contact is genuinely from HMRC.

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"Do not trust caller ID on phones. Numbers can be spoofed." It adds: "If you’re unsure about a text claiming to be from HMRC forward it to 60599, or an email to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk. Report a tax scam phone call on GOV.UK. Contact your bank immediately if you’ve had money stolen and report it to Action Fraud.

"In Scotland, contact police on 101. By reporting phishing emails, you help stop criminal activity and prevent other people falling victim." HMRC added: "The government launched its national campaign ‘Stop! Think Fraud’ earlier this year.

"Backed by organisations across law enforcement, tech, banking, telecoms and the third sector, a new website was created with advice on how to stay safe online." Kelly Paterson, chief security officer at HMRC, said: "With millions of people filing their self-assessment return before January's deadline, we're warning everyone to be wary of emails promising tax refunds.

"Being vigilant helps you spot potential scams. And reporting anything suspicious helps us stop criminal activity and to protect you and others who could have received similar bogus communication. Our advice remains unchanged. Don't rush into anything, take your time and check HMRC scams advice on gov.uk."