The Royal Gibraltar Police is warning the public of a scam in which emails purporting to be from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) in the UK are being used to target people.

The emails inform the recipient that HMRC have received their claim for a tax refund and provides them with a reference number. It further states that if the recipient is entitled to a refund they will be sent a revised tax calculation and paid what they are owed. It then asks them to provide their bank account details at the link provided.

The RGP advises all members of the public that receive such emails to disregard them. HMRC’s own website states:

“HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) will never use texts or emails to:

• tell you about a tax rebate or penalty 

• ask for personal payment information” 


As a rule, says the RGP, members of the public should not provide private information, reply to text messages and download or click on any links in any emails or texts they receive if they are not sure they are genuine.