HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has issued an urgent warning to Britons over a scam that involves handing over tax details. In a post on X, the UK tax authority wrote: "You wouldn't share your personal information with a stranger in person - don't do it online."
"Be aware of online scammers offering financial rewards in exchange for tax details. If you share your information, you risk losing money and having your identity used for fraud." The HMRC post included a link to the GOV.UK website where you can report scams you've been targeted by.
Video warning against sharing details
Accompanying the warning is a video urging people not to share personal details with strangers online, and not to provide your HMRC sign in or tax details with anyone.
Poor tax advice also harmful
However, it's not just illegal scams that can be harmful. Poor tax advice can also have devastating consequences, even if it's not unlawful. The Government previously warned against being wary of tax advice circulating online, and called on people to make sure that you check it works for you.
Its Don't Get Caught Out campaign raises awareness about the pitfalls of trusting bad tax advice. It says while getting advice about your taxes "can be helpful", "not all advice is good — and some may even be wrong or misleading".
Rise in social media tax tips
HMRC says more people than ever are turning to social media to get tips on their taxes and finances. It acknowledges that there are many creators who are responsible and aim to educate people, but "not all advice online is accurate".
"Some content can be incorrect, overly simplified, or designed to sell something that sounds too good to be true. So-called 'finfluencers' (finance influencers) often present tax advice as quick wins, without explaining the rules, risks, or whether it applies to your situation," it added.
The department calls on people to always use official sources, which provide "accurate, up-to-date guidance you can trust". "Checking GOV.UK before making decisions about your tax can help you avoid mistakes and get things right first time." It added that if "something sounds too good to be true, it probably is".
