More than 4,800 self assessment scams have been reported since February 2025,
according to data released by HMRC.
The tax authority says scammers are using persuasive and threatening tactics to
target people when they are more likely to receive correspondence from HMRC. The
scammers send fake tax demands or attempt to pressurise people to hand over
personal information.
In the last 10 months, taxpayers have reported more than 135,500 HMRC-related
scams, including 29,000 scams referring to fake tax refund claims.
HMRC is reminding customers to be vigilant and check whether the email, SMS
message or phone call claiming to be from HMRC is genuine on GOV.UK.
Lucy Pike, HMRC's Chief Security Officer, said:
'Millions of people file a tax return each year and scammers mimic HMRC to
try and catch unsuspecting victims out.
'I'm urging people to stay vigilant and 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. Just search 'report
an HMRC scam' on GOV.UK to find out more.'