How to tell if contact from HMRC is genuine or a phishing email

May 15, 2020

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, HMRC have been contacting customers directly, which has led to an increase in scams surrounding support schemes. HMRC have therefore issued guidance on recognising genuine HMRC contact and those that are phishing emails.

The latest scam reported is the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) which was open to applications earlier this week, (Monday 13 May).
 
To help protect you against fraud, a list has been collated of genuine digital, and other contact methods issued from HMRC, as well as things to look out for to help you recognise phishing or bogus contact. This can be found on the government website here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/genuine-hmrc-contact-and-recognising-phishing-emails
 
If you are in any doubt as to whether you have received a fraudulent email, telephone call or letter please contact us before responding.