HMRC has issued a scam warning issued as fraudsters have taken to the phone, text, voicemail and email in a bid to steal money under the guise of the tax office.
They've issued some examples of the types of scams out there - many are very convincing -
In an update on X, HMRC posted: "Unsure if the contact you’ve received from us is genuine? Use our online scams guidance to learn how to recognise and report scams to us and help play your part in protecting taxpayers across the UK."
Check what to look for first
The warning links to the following information, with a checklist to decide if the contact you’ve received is a scam. They advise this can be used for phone calls, emails and text messages.
They advise it could be a scam if it:
- rushes you
- is threatening
- is unexpected
- asks for personal information like bank details
- tells you to transfer money
- offers a refund, tax rebate or grant
HMRC will never:
- leave a voicemail threatening legal action
- threaten arrest
For more help they have put out a series of examples of HMRC related phishing emails and bogus contact .
Unsure if the contact you’ve received from us is genuine? ✉️📱
— HM Revenue & Customs (@HMRCgovuk) June 17, 2025
Use our online scams guidance to learn how to recognise and report scams to us and help play your part in protecting taxpayers across the UK. ⬇️https://t.co/SzILtGU5er pic.twitter.com/PUi4fUN0Tv
Does HMRC send text messages?
HMRC does send text messages to some of its customers. In the text message they might include a link to GOV.UK information or to HMRC webchat.
HMRC advise not to open any links or reply to a text message claiming to be from HMRC that offers a tax refund in exchange for personal or financial details. These are not genuine.
Does HMRC send WhatsApp messages?
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.
Does HMRC use QR codes?
HMRC sometimes uses QR codes in its letters and correspondence. The QR code will usually take you to guidance on GOV.UK. You will never be taken to a page where you have to input personal information.
When you are logged into your HMRC account, they may use QR codes to redirect you. For example, to take you to your bank’s login page.
You can check QR codes in communications on this list of genuine HMRC contacts.
Does HMRC request gift or payment vouchers?
HMRC will never ask you to pay with gift or payment vouchers.
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What to do if you’ve already shared personal details
- Don't blame yourself. Lots of people get tricked.
- To help fight phishing scams, send any suspicious text messages to 60599 (network charges apply) or email: phishing@hmrc.gov.uk then delete them.
- The sooner you report it, the better.
- You can report a disclosure of personal information to the HMRC security team.
If you’ve been a victim of a scam and suffered financial loss, you should also report it to Action Fraud through their website or to Police Scotland by calling 101 if you live in Scotland.
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