At Cottons, we have noticed an increase in clients receiving cold calls, automated messages or voicemails from scammers impersonating HMRC.
Clients are told that they are under investigation for non-payment of taxes and that they are to call a number to discuss this matter further. On calling this number they are then instructed to pass over their bank details.
Please be assured that this is a scam. These scams are widely reported in the media and by HMRC. While HMRC occasionally uses phone calls or automated messages these generally use a recognisable reference number. HMRC are also unlikely to contact you about a matter such as this out of the blue.
If you do receive a cold call or are unable to verify the identity of the caller please end the call immediately.
To help HMRC investigations you should report full details of the scam by email to phishing@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk, including the date of the call, phone number used and content of the call.
If you do have any concerns with regards to this please contact us and we will be happy to discuss this further.
