Know the signs of fake HMRC scam attempts
My elderly mother received scam correspondence pretending to be from HMrC. Fortunately, I spotted it but what can I tell her to look out for in the future?
HMRC will never send an email, text message, call or leave a voicemail with a customer informing them of a tax rebate or threaten legal action or arrest for tax evasion. It will never ask for personal or payment info.
If you receive anything like this, it is a scam.
Your mother should be wary of unsolicited emails, texts, or phone calls, even if they appear to be from HMRC itself. Scams can come in many forms and be very convincing, as they often display official HMRC branding and logos.
Scammers can be very persuasive and even aggressive over the phone, so if she has received a phone call that she thinks may not be genuine, it’s important she does not let herself be rushed during the call. If she feels under pressure to make a payment or provide personal details, it’s likely a scam.
While HMRC does send text and WhatsApp messages to some customers, it will never ask for personal or financial information through this channel.
Any texts from HMRC will only include a link to GOV.UK information or their webchat service.
Customers who have subscribed to the UK Government’s WhatsApp channel may receive updates that could include tax-related reminders; however, these will be single message alerts that you will not be able to reply to. It’s important not to open any links or attachments or reply to a text message claiming to be from HMRC if you’re not sure they are genuine.
Occasionally, HMRC will use a QR code in its letters and correspondence but these will only direct customers to GOV.UK guidance or, if they are logged into their HMRC account, the code may direct them to their bank log in page.
The code will never redirect customers to a page where they must input personal information.
Some scammers have been known to ask for payment in the form of gift or payment vouchers – it’s safe to say that the real HMRC would never ask for such a thing.
Any scams can be reported to Scam Watch tool on the consumeradvice. scot website and if your mother has given any personal details, contact the HMRC security team. You can find their details on the GOV.UK website.
I’m unhappy that my parcel wasn’t delivered on time by royal Mail. Can I claim compensation?
If YOUR expected mail delivery from Royal Mail hasn’t arrived within a reasonable timeframe, you have the right to claim.
If your standard mail is delayed by more than three days (or 24 hours for Special Delivery), you can claim compensation for the delay.
for mail that’s over 10 days late (or five days for Special Delivery), you’re entitled to compensation for lost items. You can find support and details on how to make a claim by visiting Advice Direct Scotland’s postaladvice. scot service, which offers guidance on Royal Mail complaints.
email s.mclean@ dailyrecord.co.uk with all your consumer queries
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