Particle.news
Download on the App Store
8 ARTICLES
·
last mo.

HMRC Warns Self Assessment Taxpayers of Impersonation Scams Pushing Fake Refunds

The tax authority cites 170,000 scam referrals in a year to underscore its advice to claim refunds only through official HMRC accounts.

Image
Image
Image
Image

Overview

  • HMRC says criminals are posing as the department to offer bogus rebates or demand urgent payments in attempts to steal personal and banking details.
  • More than 170,000 suspected scams were referred to HMRC in the 12 months to 31 July 2025, including over 47,000 reports of fake tax refund claims.
  • Officials stress they will not leave threatening voicemails, ask for personal or financial data by text or email, or contact people to tell them about a refund.
  • Customers are urged never to share passwords, usernames or access codes and to file their Self Assessment early ahead of the 31 January 2026 deadline.
  • Suspicious messages can be reported by forwarding emails to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk, reporting scam calls via GOV.UK, or sending texts to 60599, with HMRC’s Kelly Paterson urging continued vigilance.