HMRC warns people filing tax returns of huge refund scam spike hitting 144,000

As the self-assessment tax return deadline looms, millions of Brits have been told to be on high alert for scams. Fraudsters are exploiting this period by sending out fake offers of tax refunds or demanding payments in an attempt to obtain personal information and banking details, warns HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

With millions due to complete their self-assessment tax return and settle any outstanding tax by 31 January 2025, HMRC has reported a significant increase in scam reports over the past year. Approximately half of these reports involved fraudulent tax rebate claims, marking a rise of 16.7 per cent.

Between November 2023 and October 2024, 144,298 such scam reports were received, up a huge 20,702 from the year before. HMRC wants the public to know that it will never leave voicemails threatening legal action or arrest, nor will it request personal or financial information via text message - common tactics for tax scammers.

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If individuals receive communications purporting to be from HMRC and requesting personal information or offering a rebate, they are advised to check the guidance on GOV.UK.

Kelly Paterson, HMRC's Chief Security Officer, warned: "With millions of people filing their self-assessment return before January's deadline, we're warning everyone to be wary of emails promising tax refunds."

She added: "Being vigilant helps you spot potential scams. And reporting anything suspicious helps us stop criminal activity and to protect you and others who could have received similar bogus communication.

"Our advice remains unchanged. Don't rush into anything, take your time and check 'HMRC scams advice' on GOV.UK."

Those who are due