Scammers targeting self-employed, HMRC warns

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is warning the self-employed to be on their guard following the self assessment deadline after more than 570,000 scams were reported in the past year.

Criminals use phone calls, texts, and emails either offering a ‘refund’ or demanding unpaid tax, often mimicking government messages to make them appear authentic. In the 12 months to January 2022, nearly 220,000 scams reported to HMRC offered bogus tax rebates.

In January 2022, phone scams rose to 3,995 compared to 425 reported in April 2020.

Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Director General for Customer Services, said: “If someone contacts you saying they’re from HMRC, wanting you to transfer money or give personal information, be on your guard.

“Never let yourself be rushed, and if you’re in any doubt then check our ‘HMRC scams’ advice on GOV.UK.”

In addition, HMRC is warning people to double-check websites and online forms before using them to complete their 2020 to 2021 tax return.