Beware of the HMRC Scam Call

While working on the newsletter, my phone rang, and a robotic voice told me I was wanted for tax evasion and could go to prison. I laughed and put the phone down.

Recently, there has been a rise in fraudulent activities targeting unsuspecting individuals through phone calls. One particularly prevalent scam is known as the 'HMRC Scam Call.' Just like the one I'd just experienced. This scam involves perpetrators impersonating officials from Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and attempting to deceive victims into providing personal information or making payments.

The HMRC Scam Call typically begins with an automated voice message claiming to be from HMRC, informing the recipient that they owe taxes or are involved in a legal matter. The message prompts the recipient to press 1 for further details. However, it is important to note that this call is a scam and should not be trusted.

If the recipient follows the instructions and presses 1, the call is transferred to a real person who poses as an HMRC representative. This individual then employs various scare tactics, such as threats of arrest by the police and appearing in court, in an attempt to intimidate the victim into complying with their demands.

It is crucial to be aware of the following key points to protect yourself from falling victim to the HMRC Scam Call:

1. HMRC Communication Methods

HMRC primarily communicates with individuals through official channels, such as letters and emails. They do not initiate contact by phone, especially for matters related to tax payments or legal issues. Therefore, if you receive a call claiming to be from HMRC, exercise caution and remain skeptical.

2. Verify the Caller's Identity

If you are unsure about the authenticity of a call, ask for the caller's name, employee identification number, and a contact number. Inform the caller that you will independently verify their identity before proceeding with any further discussion. Genuine HMRC representatives will not hesitate to provide this information.

3. Do Not Share Personal Information

Under no circumstances should you disclose personal information, such as your full name, address, date of birth, National Insurance number, or bank details, over the phone. HMRC will never ask for this information during an unsolicited call.

4. Report Suspicious Calls

If you receive a suspicious call claiming to be from HMRC, report it immediately to HMRC's phishing team by emailing phishing@hmrc.gov.uk. Include details of the call, such as the phone number used, the date, and any other relevant information that may assist in their investigations.

5. Spread Awareness

Help protect others from falling victim to the HMRC Scam Call by spreading awareness. Inform your friends, family, and colleagues about this scam, and advise them to be cautious when receiving unsolicited calls.

Remember, by staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself and others from falling prey to fraudulent tactics. Stay alert, trust your instincts, and always verify the legitimacy of any unexpected communication.