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HMRC text message scam warning 26 March 2020
The CIPP has received reports of scam text messages that are being circulated, from sources purporting to be HMRC, and advising that, due to the coronavirus outbreak, those targeted are entitled to a tax refund.
The text message contains a link which claims that individuals should follow it, in order to calculate the refund that they are entitled to. The advice is that people should never click on the link, to ensure that their personal details aren’t compromised.
The message appears to originate from contact number +447517309365.
HMRC takes security very seriously and this is an additional reminder that you need to be alert, particularly given current circumstances. If you cannot verify the identity of the person sending the text message, you should not click on any associated links, and refrain from providing any personal details.
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).
A reminder that:
You will never receive 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
To learn more about dealing with phishing and scams visit GOV.UK. You can also refer to HMRC security advice.
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Chancellor announces measures to protect the self-employed during the coronavirus outbreak 27 March 2020
Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, addressed those individuals who are self-employed, reassuring them “you have not been forgotten”.
The government will pay self-employed people affected by the coronavirus outbreak a direct cash grant of up to £2,500 per month, of 80% of their average monthly profits over the previous three years, in alignment with how the government will reimburse employers in relation to the salaries of furloughed workers. The grant will be available to millions of self-employed individuals, for a minimum period of three months. The government have given it the title, the ‘Self-Employed Income Support Scheme’, and it will cover 95% of people who receive most of their income from self-employment. Anyone wishing to apply directly to HMRC for the taxable grant will be required to complete a simple online form, and the cash will be paid directly into the their bank account.
The Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals
Payroll: need to know
cipp.org.uk
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