With the 31 January Self Assessment deadline fast approaching, HMRC is urging taxpayers to stay vigilant against fraudsters. Over the past year, scam referrals to HMRC have risen by 16.7%, with nearly 150,000 cases reported in the year to November 2024. A large number of these referrals involved fake tax rebate claims.

HMRC has reiterated that they never request personal or financial information via text messages, nor do they leave voicemails threatening legal action or arrest.

If you receive any communication claiming to be from HMRC that asks for personal details or offers a tax rebate, it is crucial to verify its legitimacy. Visit GOV.UK for advice on recognising and reporting potential scams – https://www.gov.uk/guidance/identify-hmrc-related-scam-phone-calls-emails-and-text-messages