HM Revenue and Customs has issued an urgent nationwide warning to millions of UK taxpayers about a dangerous new phishing scam that's sweeping the country. Fraudsters are sending convincing text messages and emails pretending to offer tax rebates, putting people's personal and financial information at serious risk.
How the Scam Operates
The sophisticated fraud involves messages that appear genuine at first glance, claiming recipients are owed a tax refund. These communications typically include official-looking HMRC branding and direct victims to click on malicious links.
Key warning signs to watch for:
- Unexpected messages about tax rebates you weren't expecting
- Requests for personal or financial information
- Links to websites that don't look like genuine HMRC portals
- Urgent language pressuring immediate action
Official HMRC Guidance
HMRC has emphasised that they never notify taxpayers about rebates via text message or email. The only way to check if you're genuinely owed a tax refund is through your official personal tax account on the GOV.UK website.
What to Do If You're Targeted
- Do not click any links in suspicious messages
- Never provide personal information in response
- Forward suspicious texts to 60599 (network charges may apply)
- Report suspicious emails to HMRC at phishing@hmrc.gov.uk
- Delete the message immediately after reporting it
The timing of this scam alert is particularly concerning as many legitimate tax rebates are processed during this period, making fraudulent messages appear more convincing to unsuspecting taxpayers.
Protecting Yourself from Financial Fraud
Financial experts recommend treating all unsolicited messages about money with extreme caution. Always navigate directly to official government websites rather than clicking links, and enable two-factor authentication where possible for added security.
If you believe you may have fallen victim to this scam, contact your bank immediately and report the incident to Action Fraud, the UK's national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime.
