Yahoo News Man jailed for offering fake tax refunds in Covid-19 scam
A 20-year-old man has been jailed after offering fake tax refunds during the Covid-19 lockdown.
Mohammed Khan sent more than one thousand texts claiming to be from the authorities offering refunds to people as part of the government’s response to the pandemic.
The Crown Prosecution Service said that 191 sets of personal details were obtained by Mr Khan, culminating in 49 cases of fraud and collective losses amounting £10,019.17.
After Mr Khan was sentenced to 30 weeks behind bars, the Crown Prosecution Service warned the public to beware of fraudsters exploiting the Covid-19 pandemic.
Andrew Penhale, head of the Specialist Fraud Division at the CPS, said: “As law enforcement agencies see a rise in people exploiting the Coronavirus crisis to commit fraud, the CPS continues to evolve its response to the challenges we all face.
“Our prosecutors are prepared for any potential increase in fraud-related files for us to consider, and are focused on our essential work to keep the public safe.
“If you think you have been a victim you should contact your bank and report anything suspicious to the police or Action Fraud.”
Mr Khan’s call data showed that he had sent out 1,200 such text messages over two days.
One text message read: “UKGOV: You are eligible for a Tax Refund as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Please fill out the following form so that we can process your refund.”
Other messages pretended to be from the mobile phone company Three UK, and read: “Due to the current pandemic we are issuing a refund for your last bill. Please verify your details so we can process your refund.”
Mr Khan also sent out links to fraudulent websites which looked identical to the real ones. Recipients were told to go to these and enter their personal details including their name, address, card security number, mother’s maiden name and passwords.
Patricia Deighan, Crown Advocate at the CPS, said: “This was a manipulative and pre-meditated fraud that affected at least 49 victims who lost money.
“When police arrested him at his home, he initially claimed to have lost his phone. But when officers called his number, they could hear the phone ringing and Khan later pointed out that the handset was outside on the balcony.
“I hope this sentence serves as a reminder that the CPS will work with criminal justice partners to root out and prosecute fraudsters at every opportunity.”
