Beware of Fake HMRC Letters Targeting Businesses!

Scammers are using fake HMRC letters to try and steal your confidential information. Looking legit with HMRC logo etc, it is easy to believe that such a letter is genuine.  The current letters that HMRC are warning about suggest they have been sent from the ‘Indv and Small Business Compliance’ team.

Let’s learn how to identify these scams and protect your business.

How to Spot the Scam:

• Fake Email Address: The biggest giveaway is the email address included in the letter. HMRC will never use an email address that doesn’t end in gov.uk.
• Urgent Requests: These letters often demand immediate action and threaten consequences if you don’t respond. HMRC typically allows ample time for responses.
• Suspicious Demands: The scammers might ask for a wide range of documents like bank statements, passports, or tax returns – all digitally. HMRC prefers official channels like the online portal for such information.
• Grammatical Errors: While the writing quality might seem ok, look out for grammatical mistakes or unusual phrasing.

What the Scam Asks For:

• Digital copies of bank statements
• VAT returns
• Filed accounts
• Passports or driving licenses

Here’s What to Do:

• Do Not Respond: Never reply to the email address or send any information requested.
• Report the Scam: Forward the letter to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk and report it on the GOV.UK website: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/hm-revenue-customs/contact/reporting-fraudulent-emails
• Contact HMRC Directly: If you’re unsure about communication, reach out to HMRC through their official website or phone number.
• Contact Johnston Smillie: If you are a Johnston Smillie client please just contact us and we will check it out for you.

Remember: HMRC generally communicates through letters or your online tax account. If something feels off, it probably is. Don’t hesitate to report the scam and protect your business from identity theft and financial loss and remember we are always here to help.  If you are unsure just contact your usual Johnston Smillie contact.

Stay vigilant and keep your business safe!

Image by Jigar-Panchal on Unsplash