12.09.16 HM Revenue and Customs and the 2 Step Verification

HM Revenue and Customs have a responsibility to protect the data you provide them with. On March 29^th 2016, the 2 Step Verification (2SV) process was launched and has since helped protect millions of customers using a digital tax account for personal tax and business customers using Self-Assessment. The process helps protect accounts against fraud by providing an additional layer of security which requires a mobile or landline phone.

The 2 Step Verification service works by sending an automated message, to the phone number (mobile or landline) that you initially set up, with a code and this is then required for individuals to gain access to their Tax Account. If the phone is lost or the number changes then customers will have to ring the Online Services Helpdesk to reset 2SV.

It’s a free service that requires minimal effort to set up and once it’s set up it is quick and easy to use. The 2SV service is already very common across other internet sites, including banking, e-mailing and purchasing things online. In addition, the services provided additional deterrence against fraud crimes by making it more difficult (without the registered mobile or landline phone they are less likely to succeed) for criminals to steal login information and exploit customers’ Tax Accounts. In January 2016 an estimated total of 600,000 Personal Tax Account users opted-in to use the service.

It’s simple to set up with instructions provided on-screen when customers login in to their Tax Account.

Government has now announced that it will be extending the 2 Step Verification to other services including VAT, Corporation Tax, employer PAYE and also to Agents.  Publicity assures that there will be a simple to use delegation tool which will enable multiple users of an account to gain access.  Research is currently ongoing prior to implementation.  Watch this space!