Beware bogus tax calls

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Fraudsters are cloning phone numbers used by the taxman to frighten victims into handing over money.

Taxpayers – many elderly – receive automated calls and answer machine messages saying arrest warrants have been issued.

People with caller display see “HMRC” flash up when the phone rings – because the fraudsters have copied official helpline numbers.

Fraudsters tell them to pay fake debts or face court proceedings.

HMRC said: “We only ever call asking for payment on a debt you are aware of, either having received a letter, or after you’ve told us you owe tax, for example through self-assessment.”