By Matthew Legg

Last updated 12:21, Monday, 14 July 2008

CUMBRIAN businesses are being warned about a ‘tax refund’ scam which could see them swindled out of millions of pounds.

The Cumberland Society of Chartered Accountants has warned of the ruse, which is aimed at obtaining personal bank and credit card information.

The scam starts with a bogus email purporting to come from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), which is designed to get hold of credit card details by offering a tax refund.

The fraudulent email asks recipients to submit the information so that the refund can be paid directly into their credit card account. HMRC has listed the scam on its website, but chartered accountants are concerned that many people might be tricked into responding.

Peter Ellwood, chairman of the Cumberland Society of Chartered Accountants, said: “As business owners and their staff prepare for their summer holidays, there is a possibility they might not read the email properly, putting them at risk of becoming potential victims of the fraudsters.”

Mr Ellwood, a partner at JFW Robinson & Co, Workington, added: “At first glance, the ‘tax refund’ document looks very convincing and some people could be taken in.

“However, alarm bells should ring whenever you are asked to submit your credit card details, as HMRC never requests this information.”

Those who suspect they have received the fraudulent message are advised not to follow any links in the email and to forward it to HMRC at phishing@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk.

The Cumberland Society of Chartered Accountants is part of the Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW).

The ICAEW provides leadership and practical support to over 130,000 members in more than 160 countries, working with government, regulators and industry in order to maintain the highest standards.