Fake messages from Gov.uk have been doing the rounds - offering tax refunds, benefit payments and fines. The messages are designed to entice you to select or click on a link or call a number that will take you to a fake website or call centre where criminals will try to get you to enter your personal information.
How to protect yourself
Think before you click. Be wary of unexpected emails or text messages asking you to click links or telephone a company. Don’t provide any personal information unless you’re 100% sure who you’re dealing with.
What to do
If in doubt, contact the company by looking up their number, then call them to confirm the message is really from them. You can also report fake government messages to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or at actionfraud.police.uk.