We are at that point in the fraudster’s calendar where they start bombarding those who are completing their tax returns online. Yes the phishing emails are doing the rounds.
These emails are so convincing that many are still fooled into clicking on the link and divulging their personal information, despite the many warnings not to.
A survey conducted by the digital authentication vendor MIRACL found that of the estimated 10 million UK citizens that completed their self-assessment tax return online prior to the January deadline at least 40 percent will have received a fake email alleging to be from HMRC.
There were 1,000 respondents to the survey and around 20 percent indicated that either they or someone they knew had been a victim of identity fraud. With 14 percent expressing a concern about using government online services.
Brian Spector, CEO at MIRACL, said: “The volume of data involved in filling out a tax return online makes [fraud] a far greater risk. With all the financial data involved in a tax return, a criminal could potentially take out a mortgage in your name. Data theft and identity fraud is a multi-billion dollar business on the dark web, and so consumers must be vigilant.”
The results of the survey come two weeks after HMRC issued a warning to those filing their tax returns this month, informing the online users to be wary of scam emails sent by criminals whose aim is to get hold of their personal details.
HMRC describes itself as “one of the most phished brands in the world”, the tax office said: “Cyber criminals are likely to use the approaching 31 January deadline for Self Assessment as a cover for their scams”.
“HMRC takes online security extremely seriously, but it also needs customers to play their part."
Its director of security and information, Jonathan Lloyd White, added: "We are committed to customers’ online security, but the methods that fraudsters use to get information are constantly changing so people need to be alert. When using our online services I would urge all our customers to be vigilant, and remember that HMRC will never send an email to ask for your personal information or password, or include a link or attachment."
Please note and remember
An email from HMRC will not ask for any personal or financial information, including a user’s address, nor will it include any email attachments, links, or repayment offers.
Comment
This is a continuous problem for HMRC and taxpayers alike, all too often we hear of those who have fallen foul of the criminals. Unfortunately the issue is not just at this time of year and so ‘vigilance’ should be the watchword for everyone not just those who file online. If you get an email from HMRC remember to ask yourself, when did I give HMRC my email address?
