HMRC is warning of scam attempts targeting self assessment taxpayers in the run up to the 31 January deadline.
Last year, concerned taxpayers reported nearly 150,000 scam referrals to HMRC.
Around half of all scam reports in the last year were fake tax rebate claims, says the tax authority.
There has been a 16.7% increase in all scam referrals to HMRC – 144,298 were received between November 2023 and October 2024, up from 123,596 in the previous 12-month period, it added.
If communication claiming to be from HMRC asks for personal information or offers a tax rebate, check the advice on GOV.UK to help identify if it is scam activity.
HMRC says it will never leave voicemails threatening legal action or arrest or ask for personal or financial information over text message – only fraudsters and criminals will do that.
Kelly Paterson, Chief Security Officer at HMRC, said:
'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.
'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.'
Internet link: GOV.UK HMRC