Scam warning: Fraudulent Companies House and IPO invoices

02 June 2026 | posted in Company Secretarial services

Companies House are warning business owners to be aware of scam payment requests and unsolicited invoices pretending to be from government departments.

There has been a noticeable rise in scam invoices and payment requests sent to companies, often pretending to come from official bodies like Companies House or the Intellectual Property office (IPO). These typically request payment for standard services such as company filings or trademark renewals.

Many of these are still sent the old-fashioned way, through the post, usually to your registered office address. Some are also sent by email.

Common examples include demands for payment for standard services such as:

• Setting up or activating a Companies House online account
• Authenticating company details
• Verifying filings
• Renewing a trademark
• Being listed on a so-called ‘exclusive’ or official-looking register.

Companies House warned: “These invoices may request payment at a highly inflated price for services available for a much lower fee, or free of charge, directly from the legitimate sources: Companies House, IP attorneys or the IPO.”

Spot the warning signs

Bogus invoices and payment requests can look surprisingly legitimate at first glance – but are actually sophisticated scams.

Here are some simple checks you can make:

• Check the web address: Official Companies House and IPO services are always delivered via gov.uk.
• Look closely at email addresses: Fake ones often mimic real addresses but include small errors, typos, or odd wording.
• Read the small print: Some letters include disclaimers stating they’re not affiliated with the government (often hidden in plain sight).
• Avoid clicking payment links: These can lead to phishing sites or install harmful viruses or malware.
• Verify before you pay: If you’re unsure, contact Companies House or the IPO directly using official contact details.

Stay vigilant

Scammers are becoming more sophisticated, but with a bit of awareness, they’re also avoidable. If something doesn’t look or feel right, pause and double-check before making any payment.

If you’re unsure about a letter or email you’ve received, contact Companies House, the IPO or your usual Moore adviser directly before making any payment.

To double check a suspicious invoice, report the potential fraud online to Companies House or by email to phishing@companieshouse.gov.uk. On trade mark and IP issues, email IPO at misleadinginvoices@ipo.gov.uk