HMRC Issues Urgent Warning Over Surge in Fraudulent Tax Refund Scams Targeting Britons

Published: 21th August 2025 . The English Chronicle Desk

The UK’s tax authority has issued a stern warning to citizens as reports of fraudulent communications impersonating HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) continue to rise, highlighting the growing threat posed by scammers seeking to steal personal and financial information. In the year ending July 31, 2025, concerned members of the public submitted over 170,000 scam referrals to HMRC, with more than 47,000 reports specifically related to fake tax refund claims.

HMRC has cautioned that scammers frequently pose as the tax office, offering false refunds or demanding urgent payments in order to access sensitive banking details. In its latest guidance, HMRC emphasised that individuals should never share passwords, usernames, or access codes under any circumstances, even with someone who appears trustworthy or claims to be assisting with tax matters. “Scammers may attempt to create a sense of urgency or promise a reward, but no genuine HMRC communication will ever ask for this type of information through email, text, or phone,” a statement from the authority read.

The tax office also advised that early filing of self-assessment tax returns can help protect individuals from falling victim to scams. Those who have already submitted their returns are less likely to be caught off guard by attempts that typically intensify as the January 31, 2026, self-assessment deadline approaches. HMRC recommends that anyone receiving a suspicious message claiming to be from the organisation check official scam guidance to confirm its authenticity before taking any action.

Kelly Paterson, HMRC’s Chief Security Officer, warned that scammers often target individuals during periods of high tax activity. “Fraudsters know when Self Assessment customers are preparing to file their tax returns, and they exploit that period to send fake refund emails and texts,” she said. Paterson urged the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity immediately, advising that a moment of caution could prevent significant financial loss. “Search ‘HMRC scams advice’ on GOV.UK to access up-to-date guidance and protect yourself from potential fraud,” she added.

Financial experts echo HMRC’s warnings. Laura Suter, director of personal finance at AJ Bell, noted that scammers target both those who file close to the deadline and those who submit their returns early. “Filing early can not only put you first in line for a refund but also reduce the risk of being pressured or misled by fraudulent communications,” she explained. Suter emphasised that genuine refunds are only issued through official HMRC channels, such as the HMRC online account or the free HMRC app, and never via text or email.

To assist victims and prevent further harm, HMRC provides multiple reporting avenues. Suspicious emails can be forwarded to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk, scam phone calls can be reported through GOV.UK, and fraudulent texts can be sent to 60599. The tax authority continues to work to raise awareness across the country, urging citizens to exercise caution and verify any communication before disclosing personal or financial information.

With thousands of Britons falling victim to such scams each year, the warning underscores the critical need for vigilance in an increasingly digital and fraud-prone environment. As the January self-assessment deadline approaches, HMRC’s latest alert serves as a timely reminder of the importance of secure practices and awareness in safeguarding personal data and financial security.