4,800 Self Assessment Scams Reported — How to Stay Safe
HMRC warns of surge in Self Assessment scams as the January deadline approaches. Learn how to spot fake messages and protect your information.
HMRC has reported over 4,800 Self Assessment scams since February 2025, with fraudsters targeting taxpayers ahead of the 31 January deadline.
The Scale of the Problem
| Metric | Number |
|---|---|
| Self Assessment scams reported | 4,800+ |
| Total HMRC scam reports (10 months) | 135,500+ |
| Fake tax refund scams | 29,000+ |
| Fake websites/numbers shut down | ~25,000 |
Common Scam Types
- Fake tax refunds — messages claiming you're owed money
- Threatening demands — urgent payment requests with legal threats
- Phishing emails/texts — links to fake HMRC websites
What HMRC Will Never Do
HMRC will never:
- Leave voicemails threatening arrest or legal action
- Ask for personal or financial details via text or email
- Contact you about refunds by email, SMS, or phone
- Ask for passwords, PINs, or access codes
If you receive any of these, it's a scam.
How to Report Scams
| Type | Where to Report |
|---|---|
| Suspicious emails | Forward to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk |
| Suspicious texts | Forward to 60599 |
| Suspicious calls | Report on GOV.UK |
| Lost money | Contact your bank immediately |
How to Stay Safe
- Don't click links in unexpected messages about tax refunds
- Verify independently — go directly to GOV.UK, don't use links in messages
- Use strong passwords — unique for each account
- Check your tax account — log in to your HMRC online account to see genuine messages
Information accurate as of 19 December 2025. Verify current details on GOV.UK.
Official Sources
scamsself-assessment