HMRC Sounds Alarm on Tax Scam Surge
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is warning millions of Self Assessment taxpayers to stay sharp amid a spike in scam attacks. Fraudsters are posing as HMRC, pushing fake tax refund offers, phishing emails, and urgent payment demands to steal personal and banking info.
Scam Stats Reveal Thousands Targeted
From August 2024 to July 2025, HMRC received over 170,000 scam reports. Although this is a 12% drop from last year, scammers still tried more than 47,000 fake refund claims on victims.
Spot the Red Flags – HMRC’s Top Advice
- Never share passwords, usernames, or security codes — not even with friends, family, or tax agents.
- File your tax return early to avoid last-minute scam traps before the 31 January 2026 deadline.
HMRC stresses it will never:
- Leave threatening voicemails about legal action or arrest
- Request personal or financial info by text or email
- Contact you about refunds via email, text, or phone
Refunds can only be claimed through the official HMRC online account or the free HMRC app.
HMRC’s Security Chief Issues Warning
“Scammers target people when Self Assessment season starts. Stay alert to fake emails and texts offering bogus tax refunds,” said Kelly Paterson, HMRC’s Chief Security Officer. “Pause and check before you act. Report anything fishy to HMRC to stop fraudsters in their tracks. Search ‘HMRC scams advice’ on GOV.UK for the latest scam warnings.”
How to Report a Scam to HMRC
If you spot a dodgy message or call, help HMRC fight back:
- Forward scam emails to [email protected]
- Send suspicious texts to 60599
- Report scam calls on the GOV.UK website
