Taxpayer Scam Alerts Surge as Self Assessment Deadline Approaches
As the Self Assessment deadline for the 2024 to 2025 tax year looms, more than 4,800 scams targeting taxpayers have been reported to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) in recent months. In total, HMRC has received upwards of 135,500 alerts regarding suspected scams, prompting officials to issue a warning urging vigilance.
Warning Issued to Taxpayers
HMRC has released a cautionary statement following a spike in fraudulent activities aimed at unsuspecting taxpayers. Since February 2025, over 4,800 cases of Self Assessment scams have been identified. These scams typically involve con artists employing aggressive and persuasive tactics to exploit individuals when they are likely to be corresponding with HMRC.
Many of these scams include fictitious tax notifications and efforts to coerce individuals into disclosing personal information. In the last ten months alone, more than 29,000 incidents related to fake tax refunds have been reported, highlighting the escalating nature of these fraudulent activities.
Expert Advice on Staying Safe
Lucy Pike, Chief Security Officer at HMRC, stressed the importance of being cautious. “With millions of people filing tax returns each year, scammers frequently misrepresent HMRC to trap unwary individuals,” she stated. She advised taxpayers to be alert and to refrain from clicking on any suspicious links or disclosing personal data. Those receiving potentially dubious communications should report their concerns directly to HMRC.
What HMRC Will Not Do
To assist the public in identifying scams, HMRC has clarified several practices it does not engage in:
- Leaving threatening voicemails regarding legal actions or arrests
- Requesting personal or financial information through text messages or emails
- Contacting individuals via email, text, or phone to inform them of refunds or prompt them to claim one
Reporting Scams
HMRC encourages those who encounter suspicious emails, texts, or phone calls to report these incidents. Individuals can forward emails to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk and text messages to 60599. Additionally, reports on phone calls mimicking HMRC can be made via GOV.UK.
Tips for Protection
HMRC also provided some guidelines to help individuals safeguard themselves against potential scams:
- Be cautious and protect your personal information
- Verify the authenticity of any unsolicited communication before providing information
- Utilize strong and unique passwords across various accounts
As the Self Assessment deadline of 31 January 2026 approaches, taxpayers are reminded to file their returns and settle any outstanding taxes online through the official HMRC website.
Background
The increase in scam reports comes at a time when many individuals are gearing up for their annual tax obligations. With more criminals adopting sophisticated methods to exploit taxpayers, awareness and education about these scams are crucial in protecting the public.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/4800-self-assessment-scams-reported
