Avoid tax-rebate text message scams
Introduction
Scamming on tax-rebate is on the rise, and HMRC has warned individuals to be more vigilant against this organised crime. We all love tax refunds, we think they shine on our payslips, allow us to do extra things outside of our routine which is marvellous, BUT remember not everyone as honest as you are.
Yes, HMRC does many things to you but here is a list of what it never does;
- Asking your bank details,
- Being curious over your private details,
- Texting you asking questions.
- Sending you slightly muddled website links and ask you to click on them.
As our friendly tax collector institute pointed out tax refund scam is becoming increasingly popular amongst organised online crime category, given the number of deceitful contents on certain websites recently.
How do they trick you?
The modus operandi of these frauds may significantly differ but for a start, they always attempt to harvest your critical information such as bank details, HMRC gateway info, online credentials and so on.
They make it look glamorous! Remember, colourful things are the most venomous ones in nature and scammers are known to be talented to make the things look purchasable. The content of the messages would be triggering, exciting and blended in an enthusiastic call-to-action sort of language as in “call us!”, “click on the link!”, “Let`s have a chat!”, “urgent, quick, do it now!”. The aim is to lure you into their website or urge you to ring them by creating a sensation of urgency. And they essentially pick your critical information by making you follow their own malicious instructions. Don`t! Because you now know HMRC don`t text you about your tax-rebate they illustrate it on your payslip.
Insight about the scam
As many public and private bodies suggest, these gloating frauds mainly target vulnerable individuals with inviting offer that has no credibility what so ever.
By 2019 we officially live in a tech era, hence the vast majority of people incline to make online alternatives use of banking, taxation and other paperwork driven tasks. As in every development, this one also has big juicy cons by opening itself to online threats.
Obviously, the biggest obstacle is to make sure you have a fully secured maintenance of confidential data and flow of finances.
There have been countless attempts made to reduce the number of scams yet about 250,000 cases received by the HMRC last year in spring is quite alarming. The huge number of constant efforts of such frauds certainly points out that there is a need for consistent applications substantially.
Yet we think raising awareness is the key to rid ourselves of these terrible scams. Relevant institutions have begun to take serious cautions to fight this growing issue, so to speak self- education, reading relevant articles and keeping yourself updated with the latest developments would be most helpful.
Conclusion
Online Account Filing intends to provide comprehensive knowledge to its clients and customers regarding the steps they should be taking to avoid any unpleasant consequences. Our proven expertise in accountancy and providing digital solutions allow us to provide complete guidance for general awareness as well as ensuring correct compliance.
For further clarification on the subject, please feel free to contact us.
