HMRC Warns of Rising Self-Assessment Scams Ahead of January Deadline

With the 31 January Self-Assessment deadline approaching, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has issued a warning about a sharp rise in tax-related scams targeting taxpayers.

Scammers frequently take advantage of peak filing periods, when individuals are expecting communications from HMRC and may be more likely to respond quickly. HMRC is urging taxpayers to stay alert and report any suspicious contact.

Scale of the Problem

Since February 2025, HMRC has received reports of:

• Over 4,800 Self-Assessment–related scams, and

• More than 135,500 suspected scams in total, including

• 29,000 reports involving fake tax refund claims
  

These figures highlight the growing sophistication and volume of scam activity aimed at taxpayers.

Common Scam Tactics to Watch Out For

Scammers often impersonate HMRC and use persuasive or threatening language to pressure individuals into acting quickly. Common tactics include:

• Fake tax demands sent by email, text message or phone call

• Messages claiming you are due a tax refund, requesting bank or personal details

• Threats of legal action, fines or arrest if immediate payment is not made
  

These messages are designed to cause panic and prompt quick responses without proper checks.

HMRC’s Advice

Lucy Pike, HMRC’s Chief Security Officer, has confirmed that scammers deliberately mimic official HMRC communications to deceive taxpayers. Her advice is clear:

“If any emails, text messages or phone calls appear suspicious – don’t be lured into clicking on links or sharing your personal information. Report it directly to HMRC.”

Taxpayers can report suspicious messages by searching “report an HMRC scam” on GOV.UK.

What HMRC Will Never Do

HMRC has confirmed that it will never:

• Leave voicemails threatening legal action or arrest

• Ask for personal or financial information via email or text message

• Contact you by phone, text or email to tell you about a refund or ask you to claim one
  

Any message that includes these elements should be treated with extreme caution.

Unsure If a Message Is Genuine?

If you receive a message claiming to be from HMRC and are unsure whether it is genuine, it is important not to respond or click on any links.

At SJC, Chartered Accountants, we are happy to help our clients verify whether a communication is legitimate and provide guidance on what to do next.

If you have any concerns, please contact our team for advice.