Region’s students given warning over fake tax-rebate email scam

NORTH East students are being hit by a scam which promises them tax refunds – before attempting to steal their cash.

HM Revenue and Customs has said it has seen a rise in ‘phishing’ emails sent to students, with fraudsters using seemingly legitimate university email addresses, such as ‘@uc.ac.uk’, to avoid detection.

HMRC says “thousands” of these scams have been reported over recent weeks.

The fake emails claim the person is due a tax rebate from HMRC. But students eager to claim their cash back are redirected to websites where their information can be stolen.

Newcastle and Durham University students were among those listed as particularly at risk.

Mel Stride, MP and financial secretary to the Treasury, said: “HMRC will never inform you about tax refunds by email, text or voicemail.

“If you receive one of these messages it is a scam. Do not click on any links in these messages, and forward them to HMRC’s phishing email address – phishing@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk.

“Although HMRC is cracking down hard on internet scams, criminals will stop at nothing to steal personal information. I’d encourage all students to become phishing aware – it could save you a lot of money.”

Pauline Smith, director of Action Fraud, said: “Devious fraudsters will try every trick in the book to convince victims to hand over their personal information, often with devastating consequences. It is vital that students spot the signs of fraudulent emails to avoid falling victim by following HMRC’s advice.”

The scam has affected institutions across the UK, and officials said North East universities should take action to raise awareness of it.