HMRC Sounds Alarm Over Ruthless Phone Scam Targeting Elderly
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is issuing a stark warning across the South East. A ruthless phone scam is tricking vulnerable and elderly people into handing over thousands of pounds. Scammers cold-call victims, pretending to be HMRC officers.
Fake Tax Demands Push Victims to Buy Gift Card Vouchers
Conmen claim victims owe huge tax debts that can only be paid via digital vouchers like Apple iTunes gift cards. Targets are told to visit local shops, buy these vouchers, then read out the codes while still on the phone. The crooks swiftly sell these codes or use them to purchase expensive goods—all at the victim’s cost.
Intimidation is rife. Scammers threaten to seize property or involve the police to scare victims into compliance.
Voucher Scam Soars, With Thousands Falling Prey
The scam’s popularity is no surprise — vouchers are easy to sell and nearly impossible to trace once redeemed. HMRC stresses it would never demand tax payments this way.
According to Action Fraud, from early 2016 to August this year, over 1,500 reports of this rip-off have come in, with cases rising recently. Most victims are over 65, losing an average £1,150 each.
HMRC and Partners Battle Back
HMRC is teaming up with law enforcement, Apple, and campaign groups to flood the public with warnings.
“These scammers are very confident, convincing and utterly ruthless. We don’t want to see anyone fall victim to this scam just before the end of the year,” said Angela MacDonald, HMRC’s Director General of Customer Services.
“We urge people with elderly relatives to warn them never to trust unsolicited calls demanding payment for tax bills. If you think you’ve been scammed, contact Action Fraud immediately.”
