HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has issued a warning to UK households urging them to protect their National Insurance numbers, which could be exploited for identity theft and fraudulent activities such as claiming benefits or securing loans illegally.
On social media platform X, HMRC advised: "Need your National Insurance number for your new job? Remember to keep it safe and only share it when you need to." The post encouraged users to download the HMRC app for easy access.
A National Insurance number is assigned shortly before a person's 16th birthday and remains with them for life. It ensures that National Insurance contributions and tax records are accurately linked to the individual. The number consists of two letters, six digits and a final letter—for example, QQ123456B.
The number appears on tax documents such as payslips and P60 forms. Individuals can request a letter containing it or find it online via the HMRC app. Those who have never had a number can apply for one. The Government website recommends using the HMRC app, available from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, to verify your National Insurance number.
GOV.UK advises: "To prevent identity fraud, do not share your National Insurance number with anyone who does not need it." The HMRC app can be accessed using a Government Gateway user ID and password, or through facial recognition or fingerprint identification.
