Tax deadline sparks new warning of scammers

A scams warning has been issued by tax chiefs as the deadline for credit renewals looms.

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) says typical scams include emails or texts falsely claiming someone's details are not up to date and that the recipient may miss out on payments.

Scam messages may also claim that a payment has not "gone through".

Criminals may also phone people and threaten them with arrest if they do not immediately pay fake tax debts.

HMRC is also urging people to be alert to misleading websites or adverts asking them to pay for Government services which are free – often by charging for a connection to HMRC helplines.

Tax officials say people can renew their tax credits for free via gov.uk or the HMRC app.

Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC's director general for customer services, said: "Criminals use deadlines, such as the tax credits renewal deadline on July 31, to target potential victims and tax scams come in many forms.

"We will never contact people ‘out of the blue’ and ask them to transfer money. Be alert to the tactics and never allow yourself to be rushed.”

She added :" If someone contacts you saying they' re from H MR C and asks you to give personal information or ur gently transfer money, be on your guard.

"Search HMRC scams advice on gov.uk to find out how to report scams and help us fight these crimes."

The revenue body is currently sending out tax credits renewal packs to 15 million people and says anyone who has not yet received theirs should wait until after June 15 before contacting HMRC.