Tax authorities have issued an urgent alert following a rise in fraudulent activity. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is warning that cyber criminals are currently posing as officials to offer fake tax refunds. These scams are specifically designed to trick people into handing over their bank details. If you receive a message that feels 'wrong', experts at the tax office advise against clicking any links or sharing private data. You can verify your actual tax status safely by using official Government platforms or the dedicated mobile app. Staying informed about these deceptive tactics is the best way to protect your hard-earned money.
Social Media Alert
In a post shared on social media platform X, HMRC said: "SCAM ALERT! We're receiving increased reports of customers being contacted by scammers claiming they are due a tax refund. Always take the time to stop and think if the request is genuine before sharing personal information or clicking on any links. If you're unsure, don't click on any links and report it to us. To find out if you are due a tax refund, you can log into your HMRC online services account on GOV.UK or the HMRC app."
How to Spot a Scam
HMRC suggests it is likely a scam if the communication creates a sense of false urgency, uses threatening language, arrives entirely out of the blue, requests private data like bank information, instructs you to move money elsewhere, or promises a grant or tax rebate.
Red Flags
Official representatives will never use certain tactics when trying to contact you. HMRC will never leave a voicemail message threatening you with legal action or suggest that you are at risk of arrest.
Text Message Guidance
Regarding mobile messages, GOV.UK said: "HMRC does send text messages to some of our customers. In the text message, we might include a link to GOV.UK information or to HMRC webchat. We advise you not to open any links or reply to a text message claiming to be from HMRC that offers you a tax refund in exchange for personal or financial details. To help fight phishing scams, you should send any suspicious text messages to 60599 (network charges apply) or email phishing@hmrc.gov.uk then delete them."
Digital Security
The Government does use a specific WhatsApp channel, but its functionality is very limited for security. GOV.UK said: "If you have subscribed to the UK government channel on WhatsApp, you will receive updates that might include occasional tax-related reminders. These will be single-message alerts, and you will not be able to reply. HMRC will not communicate with you for any other reason using WhatsApp." You may also see QR codes in official letters, but these should only lead to guidance pages. It said: "The QR code will usually take you to guidance on GOV.UK. We will tell you if the QR code takes you anywhere else. You will never be taken to a page where you have to input personal information. When you are logged into your HMRC account, we may use QR codes to redirect you. For example, to take you to your bank's login page. If we're using QR codes in communications, you'll be able to see them on the list of genuine HMRC contacts." If a code looks suspicious, you can forward the email to the phishing team for investigation.
Protecting Your Finances
It is important to remember that legitimate taxes are never paid using retail vouchers. HMRC will never request payment via gift or payment vouchers. If you have accidentally shared your details, you must contact the security team online as soon as possible. People who have lost money should contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040. Residents in Scotland who are concerned about fraud should call 101 for assistance. Taking quick action can help limit the damage caused by these sophisticated digital criminals.
