Off Topic Warning, fraud HMRC data fishing

I know you lot are switched on but I've received a text message claiming to be from HMRC that I'm entitled to a tax rebate. It looks legitimate with HMRC being a sender address but it's a fake. The messages are a fishing method for stealing people's personal data. I've contacted HMRC and confirmed that it's a fake as they never send text messages out regarding tax rebates.

 

Think you've posted this on the wrong board

 

Been having these for weeks, they are always chasing me for money not the other way round.

My boy got one as well, he was over the moon only for me to dash his hopes as the HRMC only do things by post and if he was due a rebate, they would just send him a cheque.

 

They not only use txt messages, I've had email as well, well done for flagging it up though, and yes we are switched on(except for valley), nice one.........

 

Same here Phil, that's the thing HRMC only contact you by post nothing electronically.

 

Not strictly correct Never - I complete my tax return online and they confirm successful receipt " Thank you for completing your Self Assessment tax return."

Additionally, they do send you messages about completing your return, but as you can see, they recognise the importance of security so do not attach a link.....

"You have a new message from HMRC.

To view it - sign in to your HMRC online account.

A link isn't included for security reasons.

Why you got this email

You chose to get paperless notifications from HMRC.

We have started to send emails to tell you when you have messages in your account.

From HMRC"

 

Yes I understand that, but tax code changes and any refund or in my case underpayment, they contact you by post. Never had anything electronically from them.

 

These have been doing the rounds on email for ages. Unfortunately, it's usually old people who are taken in.

 

this is what the HMRC sent me regarding fishing

https://www.gov.uk/report-suspicious-emails-websites-phishing

HMRC phishing emails, texts and tax scams
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) will never use texts or emails to:

• tell you about a tax rebate or penalty
• ask for personal or payment information

Check HMRC’s guidance on recognising scams if you’re not sure.

Forward suspicious emails to [email protected].

Forward suspicious text messages to 60599. Text messages will be charged at your network rate.

 

With the txt message is that the text address being HMRC.GOV.UK

Can fool anyone if the don't decide to check how the HMRC notify people

 

What gave it way for me was the fact they were asking for my bank account number sort code and password .