Freelancers, Taxpayers, and New Limited Companies: Beware of Companies House Scams!

Are you a freelancer, taxpayer, or someone who just registered a limited company? Keep an eye out for scam attempts claiming to be from Companies House! These scammers try to steal your personal information through various methods, including letters, texts, and phone calls.

This article will explain how to identify and avoid these scams.

The Payment Code Scam: How It Works

When registering with Companies House, entrepreneurs often use their home address as their correspondence address, especially if they lack an office. Since this information is publicly available online, scammers exploit it by sending fraudulent letters directly to UK businesses.

One example involves a letter demanding a £47 using a fake "payment code number."

Red Flags to Watch Out For

These scam letters can appear convincing at first glance. They might even include a fake email address with the "gov.uk" domain. However, a closer look reveals some key giveaways:

1. Demand for Money: Companies House never asks for payments or personal information.

2. Spelling Errors: Look for typos and grammatical mistakes.

3. Urgent Deadlines: Scammers often create a sense of urgency by demanding immediate action.

What to Do If You Receive a Scam

Unfortunately, Companies House scams are frequent. Scammers use various methods, including emails, phone calls, and letters. Here's how to respond:

• Report It: Even if you recognise a scam, report it to Companies House (0303 1234 500) and Action Fraud (a police-run reporting centre). This helps warn others.

• Stay Calm: Don't panic! Scammers thrive on victims who make rushed decisions.

• Protect Yourself: If you've shared personal or payment details, contact your bank immediately to prevent unauthorised transactions. Block all communication with the scammer.

Remember: By staying calm and vigilant, you can avoid falling victim to these scams.

Additional Resources:

• You can find more information and advice from Companies House on pen_sparkhttps://www.gov.uk/guidance/reporting-scams-pretending-to-be-from-companies-house