HMRC has issued a scam warning over a £153 million TikTok scam that tricks people into handing over their personal tax details. The Labour Party government's tax arm has blocked transactions after fraudulent claims to take money out of the public purse raised suspicion.
Two unnamed men are accused of using the social media platform to persuade taxpayers to hand over tax account details with the promise of financial rewards. Both suspects are Romanian nationals, aged 22 and 25, and were arrested at addresses in the Newham area of London on 23 April 2026. They were subsequently released on bail.
How the Scam Works
To illustrate the warning, HMRC showed a picture of a repayment of £19,692 in what looked like an HMRC account portal. A message alongside the picture said: “HMU [hit me up] for quick cash”. The scammers asked users to “DM” (direct message) their National Insurance number, address, and date of birth.
Another message said: “I sign you up for a UTR number, a letter with a code inside will be sent to your address, once you receive the code you send me the letter. I then process your payment, it will arrive in your bank in 5-7 days. You then transfer my 50pc share into the sort code listed above.” It added: “I do not take your bank login. Limited spaces available. I only work with people I trust.”
Official Warning
Remember: HMRC will never use social media to offer a tax rebate or ask for personal or payment information. Simon Grunwell, of HMRC’s Fraud Investigation Service, said: “Anyone who comes across adverts on social media or is approached in any way with promises of easy money through their tax credentials should think twice and report it. You should protect your personal tax details in the same way you protect your bank details. Claims of quick, risk-free cash in return for sharing your personal information are a scam. They aim to defraud you and the taxpayer.”
