HMRC Tax Refund Scam — Fake UK Tax Authority Texts and Calls
HMRC impersonation scams cost UK taxpayers millions each year. Learn to identify fake HMRC tax refund texts, calls, and emails — and how to verify any HMRC contact.
HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) is one of the most impersonated organisations in the UK. Scammers use the authority and fear associated with the tax office to pressure people into handing over money or personal details. These scams cost UK taxpayers hundreds of millions of pounds each year.
The most common HMRC scam types
The tax refund text "HMRC: You are owed a tax refund of £342.75. To claim your refund, please visit: [link]"
This is the most widespread HMRC scam. HMRC does not issue refunds via SMS links. All genuine refunds are processed through your Personal Tax Account at gov.uk or paid directly into your bank account on record — no action required from you.
The tax refund email Similar to the text version, fake HMRC emails claim you're owed a refund and direct you to a convincing fake HMRC website that captures your personal details and bank account information.
The arrest threat call "This is HMRC. You have unpaid tax of £4,500 and a warrant has been issued for your arrest. To stop the arrest, you must pay immediately by [gift cards/Bitcoin/bank transfer]. Do not tell anyone about this call as it is part of an investigation."
HMRC does not arrest people over unpaid tax without substantial written notice and opportunity to respond. They do not demand payment by gift card or cryptocurrency. They do not tell you to keep calls secret.
The National Insurance number suspension "Your National Insurance number has been suspended due to suspicious activity. Press 1 to speak to an HMRC officer."
National Insurance numbers cannot be "suspended." This is a fabricated concept. The call connects you to a scammer who will attempt to extract personal details.
The automated penalty notice An automated call or voicemail claiming a large penalty has been issued and legal proceedings have started. Pressing a number to "resolve" the issue connects you to a scammer.
How to tell if HMRC contact is genuine
Real HMRC will:
- Send written letters through the post for significant tax matters
- Direct you to sign into your Personal Tax Account at gov.uk
- Give you time to respond and options to dispute
- Provide a reference number you can verify at gov.uk/contact-hmrc
- Accept payment through official HMRC payment methods only
Real HMRC will never:
- Text you a link to claim a refund
- Email you a link to claim a refund
- Threaten immediate arrest over unpaid tax
- Demand payment by gift card, cryptocurrency, or wire transfer
- Ask you to keep the contact secret from family or a solicitor
- Call you and ask for your full National Insurance number, bank details, or passwords
FAQ
HMRC does send some SMS notifications, but they never include links asking you to claim refunds or verify personal details. Any HMRC text with a link to claim a refund is a scam.
HMRC may call you but will never demand immediate payment, threaten arrest, or ask for unusual payment methods. If in doubt, hang up and call HMRC directly on 0300 200 3300.
HMRC does not send emails with links to claim tax refunds. All genuine HMRC communication about refunds goes through your Personal Tax Account at gov.uk.