A cautionary point for all users of social media to be aware that scammers can create a profile of your information that may convince you that they are genuine. The example is where HMRC are being used for scams, but other fraudsters will be aware of the opportunity your social media exposure presents.
HMRC scam emails often contain the taxman’s logo and official style reference numbers and increasingly appear to be genuine communications. Scammers often sign off using the name of an actual member of HMRC staff, and send out emails in the self-assessment and tax credit renewals peak in January and July to make them appear relevant.The Low Incomes Tax Reform Group, a charity, has warned that scammers are sending “specifically crafted and targeted” emails that appear to be sent from HMRC which contains content gleaned from social media sites that is relevant to the person targeted.
