22/08/2025
HMRC Warns Of Self Assessment Scams
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is urging millions of Self Assessment customers to be vigilant against scams that impersonate the department.
Scammers often offer fake refunds or demand urgent payments to steal personal and banking information. HMRC warns that passwords, usernames, and access codes should never be shared.
Filing early can help customers spot scams more easily. Over 170,000 scam referrals were reported to HMRC in the 12 months to Friday, 31 July 2025. Of these, over 47,000 involved fake tax refund claims.
HMRC will never leave voicemails threatening legal action, ask for personal or financial information via email or text, or contact customers to inform them about a refund. Customers due a refund can claim it securely through their HMRC online account or the free HMRC app.
Kelly Paterson, HMRC's Chief Security Officer, said: "We're urging everyone to stay alert to scam emails and texts offering fake tax refunds. Taking a moment to pause and check can make all the difference. Report any suspicious activity to us before the fraudsters do any more harm."
Suspicious emails can be forwarded to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk, texts to 60599, and scam phone calls can be reported via GOV.UK.
Scammers often offer fake refunds or demand urgent payments to steal personal and banking information. HMRC warns that passwords, usernames, and access codes should never be shared.
Filing early can help customers spot scams more easily. Over 170,000 scam referrals were reported to HMRC in the 12 months to Friday, 31 July 2025. Of these, over 47,000 involved fake tax refund claims.
Kelly Paterson, HMRC's Chief Security Officer, said: "We're urging everyone to stay alert to scam emails and texts offering fake tax refunds. Taking a moment to pause and check can make all the difference. Report any suspicious activity to us before the fraudsters do any more harm."
Suspicious emails can be forwarded to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk, texts to 60599, and scam phone calls can be reported via GOV.UK.
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