HMRC scam texts: how to spot and check them

HMRC scam texts come in two emotional flavours: the pleasant surprise (a tax refund waiting to be claimed) and the frightener (unpaid tax, legal action, even arrest). Both are engineered to make you click before you think.

Got one right now? Check it

Paste the message below and ONSIM AI will give you a verdict in seconds - the scam signals, any link domains checked at the registry, and the sender number checked against our database.

ONSIM AI text check

AI

This check analyses the message content, link domains and sender against known scam patterns. It is provided for information only and is not advice: see our terms and privacy policy. Personal details are removed before anything is stored.

What the scam looks like

Typical formats currently circulating (these are scams, not real messages):

Scam example

HMRC: you are owed a tax rebate of £244.79. Claim your refund by 31/10: hmrc-refund-claims.com

Scam example

HMRC: a warrant has been issued regarding unpaid tax on your account. To avoid further action call 0203 xxx xxxx immediately.

The refund version harvests your card and identity details on a fake claim form ("we need your details to send the refund"). The threat version pushes you to a phone line where a fake officer pressures immediate payment, sometimes by bank transfer or even vouchers. HMRC threat scams disproportionately target people less familiar with how UK tax actually works.

The tells

  • ✗Refund by text. HMRC says it never texts about tax rebates or refunds.
  • ✗Threats of arrest or legal action by SMS. Real tax debt is pursued by letter, not text.
  • ✗Any link that is not gov.uk, or any request to pay by transfer, crypto or vouchers.

What the real HMRC does

Genuine tax refunds are handled through your Personal Tax Account on gov.uk or by letter (a P800 calculation). HMRC does send some advisory texts, but never ones asking for personal or payment details through a link.

If you get one

Do not click, reply or call any number in the message. Forward it for free to 7726 so your mobile network can block the campaign, then delete it. If a call or text claims to be your bank, hang up and dial 159 - the UK anti-fraud line that connects you to your real bank. If you have already entered card details, tell your bank immediately; if you have lost money, report it to Action Fraud. You can also check the sender's number to see what has been reported about it.

HMRC scam text questions

How do I know if I am really owed a tax refund?

Sign in to your Personal Tax Account on gov.uk (type the address yourself) or check any P800 letter. If a refund is due it will show there and can be claimed there. No genuine refund requires clicking a link in a text.

Can HMRC really have me arrested by text?

No. Arrest threats by text or phone are a hallmark of the scam. HMRC pursues genuine debts through letters and formal processes. If a message frightens you, that fear is the technique - report it by forwarding to 7726 and to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk.

Other scam texts going around

Royal Mail Evri DPD DVLA PayPal Amazon Hi Mum / Hi Dad O2 EE Three Vodafone Netflix Apple Banks Wrong number / friendly stranger