HMRC Scams UK — How to Spot Fake Tax Calls, Emails and Texts

HMRC scams are consistently among the most reported frauds in the UK. Criminals impersonate HMRC to steal money and personal information from thousands of UK residents every month. This guide explains exactly what HMRC will and will never do — and how to spot a fake.

What HMRC Will NEVER Do

The Most Common HMRC Scams

Fake Tax Refund Texts and Emails

You receive a text or email claiming HMRC owes you a tax refund. It asks you to click a link and enter your bank details to receive the money. HMRC never sends tax refund notifications by email or text and never asks for bank details this way.

Threatening Phone Calls

An automated or live call claims there is a warrant for your arrest due to tax fraud or unpaid tax. It demands immediate payment to avoid arrest. This is always a scam. HMRC does not arrest people for tax debts without extensive written warnings and court proceedings first.

Fake HMRC Websites

Criminals create convincing fake versions of the HMRC website at similar URLs like hmrc-refund.co.uk. Always access HMRC at gov.uk/hmrc — never through links in emails or texts.

How Scammers Know Your Tax Reference Number

HMRC scammers sometimes have your real tax reference number or National Insurance number — making their calls seem genuine. This information is often obtained from data breaches or purchased from data brokers who collect personal financial information from public sources.

Report HMRC Scams

Report fake HMRC emails to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk. Report fake HMRC texts by forwarding to 60599. Report phone scams to Report Fraud on 0300 123 2040.