It has come to our attention that fraudsters are increasingly targeting business owners with fake HMRC letters. These letters, which appear authentic, typically demand immediate payment of non-existent tax debts and often include threats of legal action to coerce people into compliance. HMRC scam letters are becoming more sophisticated, making it crucial for business owners to recognise these threats and take appropriate steps to protect themselves.
Key characteristics of these scam letters:
- Urgent language: the letters often create a sense of urgency, pressuring recipients to act quickly.
- Incorrect contact information: fraudsters provide fake contact details to mislead victims.
- Payment demands: requests for immediate payment to unfamiliar accounts should raise red flags.
How to protect yourself:
- Verify the source: always verify the legitimacy of any HMRC correspondence by contacting HMRC directly using the official contact details available on their website.
- Be skeptical of payment demands: if a letter demands payment, especially to an unfamiliar account, treat it with suspicion.
- Consult your accountant: if you receive a letter that you suspect might be fraudulent, consult with us immediately before taking any action.
What to do if you receive a scam letter:
- Do not respond: do not contact the numbers or addresses provided in the letter.
- Report it: forward the suspicious letter to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk and inform Action Fraud.
- Seek professional advice: contact us immediately for assistance in verifying the authenticity of any suspicious correspondence.
Contact us
These scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, making it difficult to distinguish between legitimate and fraudulent communication. As your trusted accounting firm, we are here to help you navigate any concerns related to HMRC correspondence. Always reach out to us if you receive any letter or notice that seems suspicious. Your financial security is our priority.
