We recently received a call from a concerned client who advised they had received a call from someone claiming to be from the HMRC Debt Recovery Team regarding some historic debt that was owed. They were threatened with all their assets being frozen and that extortionate legal fees which were also allegedly due.

The call was the first correspondence that the client had received regarding the matter and there was no reference number or details given.

After further investigation and a call to the true HMRC it was confirmed that the call was not genuine and is in fact one of the latest scams doing the rounds.

If you ever receive a call, voice message or email from the HMRC demanding money, always question this and double check using the details that can be found on the HMRC website, not the number you are given by any callers, before making any payments.

Alternatively if you are concerned then contact your accountant who will be able to advise on the matter.

Matthew said: “This seems to be the latest of the many scams that have the intention of convincing innocent people to part with their hard-earned money to professional fraudsters.

Always remember that HMRC will never ask you to transfer funds over the phone or contact you only by a phone call, voice message or email, they will always send you a letter and write to you.”