Cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and UK businesses are one of their favourite targets. One of the latest fraud trends involves scammers pretending to be from Companies House, hoping to trick company directors into revealing sensitive information or making fraudulent payments.
Knowing how these scams work is the first step towards protecting your business.
How Do Companies House Scams Work?
Fraudsters often contact business owners by:
- Sending convincing emails claiming to be from Companies House
- Making phone calls pretending to represent government departments
- Posting fake letters requesting payments
- Sending text messages with suspicious links
- Asking you to verify company information or update your details urgently
These messages are often designed to look genuine, using official logos, professional language, and urgent deadlines to pressure recipients into acting quickly.
What Are Scammers Trying to Steal?
Their objective may include:
- Personal information
- Company details
- Banking information
- Authentication or verification codes
- Online account login credentials
- Money through fake filing or registration fees
Once criminals gain access to this information, they may attempt identity theft, company fraud, or unauthorised changes to your business records.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Be cautious if you receive communications that:
🚩 Ask you to click a link and “verify” your company immediately.
🚩 Request passwords, authentication codes or banking information.
🚩 Create a sense of urgency, claiming your company could be suspended or removed from the register.
🚩 Come from email addresses that do not end in .gov.uk.
🚩 Ask for unexpected payments relating to Companies House services.
If something feels unusual, always stop and verify before taking any action.
How to Protect Your Business
There are several simple steps every business owner should follow:
✔️ Always check the sender’s email address carefully.
✔️ Never share passwords or authentication codes.
✔️ Avoid clicking links in unexpected emails or text messages.
✔️ Contact Companies House directly if you’re unsure whether a communication is genuine.
✔️ Keep your Companies House authentication code secure.
✔️ Ensure your company records and contact details are up to date.
A few minutes of caution can prevent significant financial loss.
Why Staying Informed Matters
Business compliance today goes far beyond accounting and tax returns.
Company directors are increasingly expected to understand cyber security, identity protection, Companies House obligations, and HMRC compliance.
Unfortunately, criminals know this too—and they actively target busy business owners who may respond without checking first.
How Lucas Prestige Accountants Can Help
At Lucas Prestige Accountants, we don’t just prepare your accounts.
We help our clients stay informed about important legislative updates, Companies House requirements, HMRC changes, and emerging fraud risks that could affect their businesses.
Our goal is to ensure your business remains:
- Fully compliant
- Financially secure
- Properly organised
- Protected from unnecessary risks
Final Thoughts
Companies House scams are becoming more convincing every year, but staying informed and remaining cautious can significantly reduce your risk.
Always take a moment to verify unexpected requests before sharing information or making payments.
If you’re ever unsure about correspondence claiming to come from Companies House or HMRC, speak to your accountant first.
At Lucas Prestige Accountants, we’re here to help protect both your business and your peace of mind.
Source: Reporting scams pretending to be from Companies House – GOV.UK