The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has shared a warning from HMRC about scam text messages concerning fake government grants.
Blog written by the North East Business Resilience Centre (NEBRC).
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has shared a warning from HMRC about scam text messages concerning fake government grants. These scam messages include a link to a fraudulent GOV.UK website which can be spotted by spelling and grammar mistakes that mark it out as fake.
If you do receive a related text, it is best to avoid clicking on any links, and always be extra vigilant in giving out any personal information unless viewing a website you know you can trust.
You and your colleagues may have searched or even applied for tax relief while working from home. If you are looking for information about this scheme, make sure to visit the Government’s official website directly.
Remember that it is important to be just as careful on work devices as personal devices. Falling for a phishing attempt could cost your business time and money. Criminals may be using the link to try and install ransomware in which they lock you out of your computer or phone until you pay. Even then, they may not release your devices.
Meanwhile, for further information on how to spot and deal with suspicious messages, see the NCSC guidance on their website. If you think you may have clicked on a fraudulent link or been targeted by a scam, you can
report it to the NCSC’s Suspicious Email Reporting Service.
For a limited time, the LEP is working with the NEBRC to provide free cyber security support to the self-employed and micro-businesses of less than 10 employees across the Leeds City Region. To access support, please click the sign up link below to complete a short form and North East Business Resilience Centre (NEBRC) will contact you shortly.