Taxpayers warned to look out for bogus HMRC emails

Posted in 'Identity Theft' by Barry Stamp

03 January 2012

Identity thieves are expected once again to target consumers in January by sending emails purporting to come from HM Revenue & Customs.

Many consumers will be in the process of getting information together to file their tax returns online by the deadline of 31 January. In past years 'phishing' emails have been sent by fraudsters, looking to all intents and purposes as having been sent by HM Revenue & Customs, encouraging taxpayers to click on an embedded link. That link takes the unsuspecting taxpayer to a webpage that seeks personal information, including bank details and credit card details.

Once in possession of this information, the identity thieves set about impersonating the taxpayer to empty bank accounts and to apply for credit in their name.

To find out more about identity fraud and how to make small changes to your lifestyle which can help reduce the risk of falling victim, get personalised tips using our free Identity Theft Check service.

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