Action Fraud has experienced an increase in the reporting of malicious calls and voicemails, to members of the public purporting to be from Her Majesty’s Revenue & Customs (HMRC).
Fraudsters are spoofing genuine HMRC telephone numbers to deceive their victims over the phone. The fraudsters state that as a result of the victim’s non-payment of tax or other duty, the victim is liable for prosecution or other legal proceedings in order to settle the balance. The fraudsters suggest victims can avoid this, by arranging payment to be made immediately by methods such as bank transfer or by purchasing iTunes gift cards.
If the victim is hesitant or refuses to comply, the suspect makes a threat such as immediate arrest, sending bailiffs to the victim’s address or, in some cases, deportation.
Often, the period for which the tax is allegedly due is distant enough to guarantee the victim will have little, if any, paperwork or ability to verify the claims. Once the money is paid the suspects sever all contact with the victim.
In genuine cases, HMRC will initially make direct contact with you via post/letter and potentially follow up that letter with a phone call at a later date.
If HMRC contact you via telephone they will quote the reference number on the initial letter you should have received. HMRC will not discuss something you are not already aware of, like a tax investigation, and will NOT demand immediate payment.

It is vital that the public exercise caution when receiving messages or telephone calls of this nature.

What you need to do
Always question unsolicited requests for your personal or financial information. Just because someone knows your basic details (such as your name and contact details), it doesn’t mean they are genuine. Instead, contact the company directly using trusted methods such as a known email address or phone number.
Legitimate organisations wouldn’t ask you to pay taxes, bills or fees using an iTunes gift card, or any other type of voucher. If you’re contacted by anyone that asks you to do this, you’re likely the target of a scam
Don’t be rushed or pressured into making a decision. Under no circumstances would a genuine bank or some other trusted organisation force you to make a financial transaction on the spot.
Report Phishing attempts. If you receive a call, text or email of this nature and have not lost money, you can report this as phishing to Action Fraud

Please note that this message was sent by Devon and Cornwall Police.

We would like to make you aware of the following scams:

Fake TV Licensing emails.

Fake TV Licensing emails are in circulation claiming to offer refunds etc. The links provided in the emails could lead to phishing websites to steal personal and financial details.

Never automatically click on a link in an unexpected email or text.
Always question uninvited approaches in case it is a scam, contact the company directly using a known phone number.

Fraudulent texts/emails from your bank/building society

Spoof texts are being sent out by scammers purporting to be from the bank/building society, the texts may show as being from your bank/building society or on the thread of the text messages that may have previously been received from the bank/building society– please do not click on any links or give any personal information. Do not follow out any instructions.
A genuine organisation/bank/building society will never contact you to ask for your PIN, full password or to move money.

If you receive a cold call on your phone and want to hang up and phone the organisation back on a number you trust or know to confirm authenticity, please make sure the line is clear before making another call, you can do this by phoning a friend or relative.

More information on fraud prevention and online safety can be found on the Devon and Cornwall police website: https://www.devon-cornwall.police.uk/advice/your-internet-safety/cyber-internet-crime/

Please report fraud or cyber crime to Action Fraud by phoning 0300 123 2040 or report on their website www.actionfraud.police.uk

How to avoid becoming a victim of cyber crime
Use ‘strong’ passwords, and keep your passwords secure. i.e. use at least 8 characters, include numbers and letters, both upper and lower case.
Update your computer security, anti-viral software and install a firewall.
Keep your operating systems updated.
Delete and block spam or junk emails. Be careful when opening attachments or using internet downloads.
Secure and encrypt wireless networks when using WiFi (Wireless Internet access).
Make sure your internet browser and any plug-ins are updated (e.g. Flash, Java, Silverlight)
Use reputable companies when shopping online.
Use secure payment methods, such as PayPal or credit cards for online purchases.
Avoid scams, criminal gangs operate ‘scams’ and use the internet as one of the methods to defraud people and business. i.e. asking for money to pay for travel, finance a sick relative, or winning the lottery.
They will also try passing off as your bank and ask for your banking details.
or Microsoft or your internet provider stating your computer has been corrupted and want you to click on a link or download some software.
Backup important data – like photographs, music, videos or documents and not just to the cloud.

Please share this information with others and consider displaying on public noticeboards etc.