The number of scam emails and texts offering tax rebates is set to increase over the next month.
Around 51,000 messages were reported to HMRC last year, double the number for the same period in 2013. They often link to fake websites that steal bank details. They say genuine emails will never request personal or financial details.
Last year, HMRC worked with other agencies to shut down 8,877 of these scam websites. That is a 500% increase against 2013’s figure. The message to tax credits customers this year is to stay vigilant.
Nick Lodge, Director General of Benefits and Credits, 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. The only way to renew tax credits and report changes online is on GOV.UK."
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