HMRC issues scam warning to anyone claiming Tax Credits

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

A warning has been issued by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) amid fears that claimants are being targeted by fraudsters. According to the government department, a number of new scams have been reported that aim to deceive people into handing over money or their personal information such as banking details.

The latest tactic used by scammers involves using the tax credits renewal deadline of July 31 to target victims. The department warned that around 1.5 million tax credit customers should stay alert for scams that copy government communication.

Such scams can come in the form of emails, text, or phone calls. Read more: Join the FREE Manchester Evening News WhatsApp community Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Director General for Customer Services, said: "Tax scams come in many forms and we’re urging customers to be alert to the tactics used by fraudsters and never to let yourselves be rushed.

If someone contacts you saying they’re from HMRC and asks you to give personal information or urgently transfer money, be on your guard. "Search ‘HMRC scams’ advice on GOV.UK to find out how to report scams and help us fight these crimes." HMRC warned that examples of such scams can include: The department highlighted that it would never ring claimants without warning in order to make threats or ask them to transfer money. Read next: "WTF is that?": YouTuber has 'sensible' explanation on why infamous M60 junction got its design The criminals locked up in May in Greater Manchester Devastated mum who was 'simply in too much pain' took her own life in same place as teenage son One year since the Clean Air Zone was meant to begin - what's next for the troubled £60m scheme? Family given devastating diagnosis after noticing