The number quoted in the message is ‘0300 2000314’. HMRC’s customer service contact numbers start with 0300 so someone could fall into the trap of believing that it is actually HMRC. It is not, please do not call the number.
HMRC takes security very seriously and this is a further reminder that you need to be alert. If you cannot verify the identity of the person making the call you should not disclose your personal details or call them back.
You should report these incidents on the Action Fraud website or you can call them on 0300 123 2040 (Please note this number will be charged at your normal network rate). They are open Monday to Friday 09:00 - 18:00.
A reminder that: You will never get an email, text message or phone call from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) which: • Tells you about a tax rebate or penalty • Asks for your personal or payment information
Always check HMRC’s guidance on recognising scams if you’re not sure.
You can report something suspicious to HMRC’s phishing team, for example: • A text message (forward it to 60599 - you’ll be charged at your network rate) • An email • Details of a phone call asking for personal information or threatening a lawsuit
If you do receive a suspicious phone call, you can help HMRC’s investigations by providing HMRC phishing team - (phishing@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk) with: • The caller’s phone number • The date of the call • A brief description of the call
To learn more about dealing with phishing and scams visit GOV.UK. You can also refer to HMRC security advice.
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Breakthrough controls stop phone fraudsters spoofing HMRC 4 June 2019
New defensive controls deployed by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) have put an end to fraudster’s spoofing the tax authority’s most recognisable helpline numbers.
Fraudsters have increasingly mimicked legitimate HMRC helpline numbers (often beginning with 0300) in order to dupe taxpayers and steal money. Last year alone, HMRC received over 100,000 phone scam reports.
The ‘spoofing’ scam worked as taxpayers would receive calls and, on checking the numbers online, would find they appeared to belong to HMRC. This often led people to believe fake calls were real and enabled fraud.
The new controls, created in partnership with the telecommunications industry and Ofcom, will prevent spoofing of HMRC’s most used inbound helpline numbers and are the first to be used by a government department in the United Kingdom.
Criminals may still try and use less credible numbers to deploy their scams – but that means they will be easier to spot.
HMRC has seen an increasing number of phone scams against UK taxpayers hence its urgent action.
2016/17 – 407 reports 2017/18 – 7,778 reports 2018/19 – 104,774 reports
How can you spot a scam?
The Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals
Payroll: need to know
cipp.org.uk
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