HMRC highlighted a more widespread problem with bogus registrations, where companies hijack taxpayers’ identities in an attempt to defraud HMRC.35 We have received written evidence on the time it takes for HMRC to resolve these cases and the distress this causes to those concerned.36 HMRC told us that Companies House has recently acquired new powers that will allow it to challenge information before it goes on its register as well as remove information. HMRC said that these changes will allow...

HMRC highlighted a more widespread problem with bogus registrations, where companies hijack taxpayers’ identities in an attempt to defraud HMRC.35 We have received written evidence on the time it takes for HMRC to resolve these cases and the distress this causes to those concerned.36 HMRC told us that Companies House has recently acquired new powers that will allow it to challenge information before it goes on its register as well as remove information. HMRC said that these changes will allow the entire system to better protect citizens from this type of fraud.37 30 HMRCSR004 Borderfree Trade Limited 31 Q 19 32 Q 19 33 Qq 16–17 34 Q 19 35 Q 1 Type: conclusion | Number: 11 | Response status: accepted Government response: 3.5 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Recommendation implemented 3.6 HMRC recognises the distress that misdirected letters can generate and will take immediate action to correct this when identified. The department would only use its enforceme