HMRC Warn About E-mail Fraud

HMRC are warning taxpayers that recently they have been made aware of the following scams:

'Online Update' email

We have received reports of emails being sent asking recipients to 'update your account to the new EV SSL certification'. This is a scam email attempting to steal User IDs and passwords.

The email is being sent from Onlineservices@HMRevenueCustoms.org

HMRC's advice to taxpayers who think they have received a fraudulent email is to not follow any links within the email, disclose any details or respond to it. They recommend that the email is sent to them at phishing@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk. HMRC advise that they cannot reply on each email they receive, but the information will be used to help reduce online fraud.

HMRC advise that taxpayers should never disclose personal information such as User IDs or Passwords.

HMRC have also advised that they are aware of a large number of emails being sent offering taxpayers a tax rebate. They advise that HMRC would not inform customers of a tax rebate via email or invite them to complete an online form to receive a rebate of tax. They also advise that recipients should not visit the website contained within the email or disclose any personal or payment information.

If you would like to find out more or have any questions, we will be delighted to offer any help or advice. Please contact Peter Hogan at Darlington, Nicola Bellerby at Durham or Terry Doyle at York.

Internet link: HMRC security fraud attempts

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