Contact Us

A new layer of security has enabled HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to cut the number of fake emails sent to taxpayers by 300 million, according to new figures ahead of the busiest period for self-assessment tax returns.

Last year, some 500 million phishing emails were sent to UK taxpayers alleging to be from an @HMRC.gov.uk email address. However, the tax authority’s implementation of the email authentication protocol domain-based message authentication, reporting and conformance (DMARC) has gone some way to stopping scammers in their tracks.

The new layer of security determines whether a specific email server is allowed to send emails on behalf of HMRC. If an email passes these checks it is deemed legitimate, but those that fail are labelled fraudulent and remain undelivered.

Ed Tucker, Head of Cyber Security, HMRC, said: “Phishing emails are a major focus for our cyber security team.

“They’re more than just unwanted messages; they are a means by which criminals look to exploit members of the public and gain access to their personal and financial data. This in turn can lead to fraud and identity theft.

“By introducing a new level of security, we’ve been able to tackle these threats head-on and almost all attempts to scam taxpayers by pretending to be from an HMRC email address will now fall flat.”

Tucker added that HMRC is now one of the most phished brands across the globe, most commonly with the ‘tax refund notifications’.

In order to make their emails appear genuine, criminals will look to spoof legitimate HMRC domains, notably @HMRC.gov.uk.

Any suspicious emails from HMRC that you believe to be fake can be sent to [email protected]. In addition, suspicious text messages sent from those purporting to be HMRC can be sent to 60599.

HMRC has got its own webpage dedicated to helping taxpayers avoid falling foul of scammers here.

Date published 6 Dec 2016 | Last updated 6 Dec 2016

Choose the right accounting firm for you

Running your own business can be challenging so why not let TaxAssist Accountants manage your tax, accounting, bookkeeping and payroll needs? If you are not receiving the service you deserve from your accountant, then perhaps it’s time to make the switch?

Local business focus icon

Local business focus

We specialise in supporting independent businesses and work with 80,684 clients. Each TaxAssist Accountant runs their own business, and are passionate about supporting you.

Come and meet us icon

Come and meet us

We enjoy talking to business owners and self-employed professionals who are looking to get the most out of their accountant. You can visit us at any of our 409 locations, meet with us online through video call software, or talk to us by telephone.

Switching is simple icon

Switching is simple

Changing accountants is easier than you might think. There are no tax implications and you can switch at any time in the year and our team will guide you through the process for a smooth transition.

See how TaxAssist Accountants can help you with a free, no obligation consultation

0800 0523 555

Or contact us