Scammers are targeting Tax Credit claimants with dodgy emails, websites and text messages in the run-up to the renewal deadline tomorrow (31 July).
Every year, tens of thousands of scam emails are reported to HMRC between April and July last year.
Fraudulent activity peaks this year as criminals look to con people out of the Tax Credits they are entitled to, with the most vulnerable people usually the target.
How to spot the scams
HMRC has published guidance into phishing emails and online scams to help people spot bogus communications.
Some emails purport to be from a “Tax Credit Office Agent”, offering a tax refund or include a link to a fake version of the Gov.uk website. You’ll then be asked to enter personal details such as your password, bank details or National Insurance number.
The email will come from someone ‘official’ from @hmrc.gov.uk. Be careful with these, and don’t open any attachments as they are likely to be riddled with viruses.
If you’ve received a phishing email a fraudster claiming to be from HMRC, forward it to phishing@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk and then delete it.
Nick Lodge, Director General of Benefits and Credits at HMRC, said: “HMRC will never ask people to disclose personal information by email. We have cracked down on phishing emails and scam websites, but the fraudsters’ methods are constantly changing, so people must remain vigilant."
Incorrect spelling and grammar, addressing you by anything other than your name and requests for personal details (especially by email and text) should always be viewed as suspicious.
If you’re in any doubt, call HMRC on 0345 300 3900 or head over to How to avoid scams and rip-offs for more advice.
How to renew Tax Credits
You can renew tax credits by post, online or over the phone (same number as above).
As it’s an 0345 number which will cost you the same as a call to a standard UK landline, but it will be extremely busy in the run-up to 31 July.
If you want to renew by post the address is:
Tax Credit Office
HM Revenue and Customs
BX9 1LR
United Kingdom
However, the easiest way to renew is online at Gov.uk.
Check out our guide on How to renew your Tax Credits for more on what they are and what information you need to renew.
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