With the deadline for filing those Self-Assessemnts looming at the end of the month, the UK tax authority HMRC is warning taxpayers to be aware of phoney emails claiming to come from them phishing for persona financial data.
Reports suggest that scammers are stepping up their efforts in advance of the deadline and hoping to fool unwary citizens.
The key bit of advice to remember is that HMRC will never email you asking for personal financial data or your password.
Jonathan Lloyd White, Director of Security and Information and Departmental Security Officer (DSO), HMRC, said:
“Handling the personal details of every taxpayer in the country is a huge responsibility and the security of this data, especially online, is a top priority for HMRC.
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. We want to help you stay safe online.”
