HMRC update information on known fraud attempts against taxpayers
HMRC has updated its website with additional information about known fraud attempts against taxpayers. You can find the latest information using this link: fraud attempts.
The phone calls referred to in the latest example concern impounded imports and VAT payments – probably not in the same call! It is likely that the recipient of such a call will be unaware of an import or the reason for a VAT payment.
HMRC do not pursue payments by making telephone calls to taxpayers. Payments for import duty and VAT will usually be done through the clearing agent who will send a notice to the addressee of the package. Most often this is done by Royal Mail and will details ways in which the payment can be made. Other clearing agents may deal with the matter in different ways.
For VAT payments the taxpayer will normally be asked for payment by way of an assessment contained in a letter or as a form. The taxpayer will no doubt be expecting or anticipating the assessment, so it won’t be too much of a surprise – although the amount assessed might be!
Please take care, its your money the fraudsters are after. If you do receive a call and want to check the bona fides of the caller you can contact HMRC on National Advice Service number: 0845 010 9000. HMRC staff should not be upset at you taking steps to protect yourself from fraud.
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