HMRC continues to warn taxpayers about email phishing scams. Phishing emails are used by fraudsters to access recipients’ valuable personal details, such as usernames and passwords. Whilst these messages may appear to be genuine they are very dangerous and clicking on a link from within the email can result in personal information being compromised and the possibility of computer viruses affecting your computer or smartphone.

HMRC has confirmed that from July 2018 to April 2019 they will be working with an independent research agency Kantar Public. This work will revolve around a study to understand tax agents’ views on filing Income Tax Self-Assessment and VAT returns. Tax agents may receive a letter from Kantar Public informing them about the research and a telephone call inviting you to take part. These letters are genuine.

If you are unsure as to the validity of any email or other communication from HMRC you should not respond or engage without verifying that the communication is genuine. HMRC has stated many times before that they do not send notifications of tax rebates by email nor do they ask recipients to disclose personal or payment information by email.