HMRC scams: fake refunds and threats of arrest
A message offers a tax refund, or a recorded voice threatens arrest over unpaid tax.
How this scam works
There are two versions and they work on opposite emotions.
The first is a text or email saying you are owed a tax refund, often a specific believable figure like £267.44. You click to claim it and are asked for your bank details and National Insurance number.
The second is a phone call, often a recorded voice, saying HMRC has filed a lawsuit against you and you will be arrested unless you pay immediately. The caller may demand payment by bank transfer, gift cards or vouchers.
HMRC does not ring people to threaten arrest. HMRC never asks for payment in gift cards or vouchers. Real tax refunds come through your Personal Tax Account or by cheque, never by text message link.
Warning signs
- A recorded voice threatening arrest, warrants or court action
- Payment demanded in gift cards, vouchers or cryptocurrency
- A refund offered by text or email with a link to claim it
- You are told to "press 1 to speak to an officer"
What to do
- Hang up on any recorded call about tax.
- Check whether you are actually owed anything by logging in to your own HMRC account at gov.uk.
- Forward the text to 7726 (free on all UK networks), then delete it.
- Report phone scams to HMRC at phishing@hmrc.gov.uk.
If it has already happened to you
This happens to sensible, careful people every day. What matters now is acting quickly.
- If you paid, contact your bank immediately.
- Report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or at actionfraud.police.uk.
- If you gave your National Insurance number, watch for credit applications in your name. Check your credit file for free.
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Check a messageLast updated 29 September 2026. Source: HMRC.