HMRC warns of rebate email scam

HM Revenue and Customs is warning emailers in the UK to be wary of any messages offering a tax rebate in the run-up to the online self-assessment deadline.

The emails, thousands of which have already been intercepted, tell the recipient they are due a tax rebate and ask for bank or credit card details so that the refund can be paid.

Chief executive of HMRC Lesley Strathie said: "This is the most sophisticated and prolific phishing scam that we have encountered. We only ever contact customers who are due a refund in writing, by post.

"We never use emails, telephone calls or external companies in these circumstances. I would strongly encourage anyone receiving such an email to send it to us for investigation," Strathie continued.

Security experts echoed HMRC's warning.

Michael Foreman of AVG said: "Sensitive personal information is very rarely requested via email. If you aren't sure, find out and type the URL manually instead of following links from suspect emails."

HMRC asked that any email appearing to originate from HMRC and which offers a tax refund should be forwarded to phishing@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk.

The deadline for sending your online tax return is 31 January. Last year, the self-assessment website crashed on deadline day, leading HMRC to extend the deadline for 24 hours.

www.hmrc.gov.uk
www.direct.gov.uk