HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has issued a fresh warning about scam text messages that ask recipients to provide personal information, following a rise in reported cases. The tax authority stressed that it will never request information by text and advised anyone receiving a suspicious message to "always stop and think" before responding.
Scam texts target cryptoassets declarations
In an alert shared on social media this week, HMRC said it had seen an increase in reports of scam text messages claiming to be from the tax authority. The messages ask customers to supply additional information to complete a cryptoassets declaration, and may direct them to guidance on GOV.UK if they have cryptoasset activity that may be taxable.
HMRC stated: "We're receiving increased reports of customers receiving scam text messages claiming to be from HMRC, asking for additional information to complete a cryptoassets declaration." The authority added that it "will never ask you to provide personal or financial information by text".
How to spot and report suspicious messages
Scammers often spoof government departments to make their messages appear legitimate, as reported by The Express. HMRC's advice is: "Always stop and think if a request is genuine before sharing personal information. If you're unsure, don't click on any links and report it to us."
People can report scam messages on the HMRC website, where more information on staying safe online is also available. Suspicious calls can be reported online, dubious text messages should be forwarded to 60599, and questionable emails can be sent to HMRC's phishing team at phishing@hmrc.gov.uk. HMRC advises deleting the messages after forwarding them to reduce the risk of accidentally clicking on a dangerous link.
Warning over online tax advice
The Government has also recently cautioned about tax advice circulating online, with its Don't Get Caught Out campaign aimed at helping people identify reliable help. HMRC noted that more people than ever are using social media for tax and finance tips, but warned that "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," HMRC said. It also highlighted that so-called 'finfluencers' often present tax advice as quick wins without explaining the rules, risks, or whether it applies to an individual's situation. The authority recommends checking GOV.UK before making tax decisions, adding: "If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is."
