University students have been warned by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) that fraudsters are targeting them with a wave of fake tax scams.
Thousands of fraud reports have been received by the tax authority from students at university and colleges across the UK.
Fake emails, which use university addresses in a bid to appear legitimate, may tell people that they are owed money and encourage them to send their personal details.
The recipient’s name and email address may be included several times within the email itself and the email will include links that redirect the recipient to websites where their data is stolen.
The emails often spoof the branding of HMRC, Gov.UK or credit card branding.
Director of Action Fraud, Pauline Smith said: ‘Devious fraudsters will try every trick in the book to convince victims to hand over their personal information, often with devastating consequences. It is vital that students spot the signs of fraudulent emails to avoid falling victim by following HMRC’s advice.”
Anyone targeted should not click on any links but can report cases to HMRC on their website or by texting 60599.
To report a fraud, call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or use our online fraud reporting tool.
