Index of the Article:
The Audio Summary of the Key Points of the Article:
Understanding HMRC’s Official Communication Methods
Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is the UK government body responsible for tax collection, compliance enforcement, and financial support schemes. Given its importance in handling taxpayers’ money, fraudsters often impersonate HMRC, leading to confusion about how the real tax authority actually contacts individuals and businesses. One common question among UK taxpayers is: Would HMRC call me from a mobile number?
The short answer is: It is highly unlikely that HMRC will call you from a mobile number. However, there are some exceptions, which we will explore in this article.
Before jumping into the risks of scam calls, let’s first understand how HMRC officially communicates with taxpayers.
How Does HMRC Contact UK Taxpayers?
HMRC uses multiple methods to reach out to individuals, businesses, and tax agents. These include:
Method | Purpose | Commonly Used For |
Letters (Post) | Official communication regarding tax matters. | Tax returns, refunds, compliance checks, penalty notices. |
Emails | Used for updates and guidance but never for payments. | Tax reminders, updates on government tax policies. |
Phone Calls | Usually from official landline numbers. | Compliance checks, tax investigations, helpline support. |
SMS/Text Messages | Occasionally used, but never ask for payments. | One-time security codes, tax reminders. |
Online Services (GOV.UK/HMRC App) | Secure messaging through taxpayer accounts. | Queries, self-assessment details, payment confirmations. |
It’s important to note that HMRC rarely initiates contact via phone calls unless necessary, and even then, they use landline numbers—not mobile numbers.
Would HMRC Ever Call From a Mobile Number?
In almost all cases, HMRC does not call taxpayers from a mobile number. However, there are some rare situations where HMRC officers might contact individuals using a mobile phone. These include:
Ongoing Compliance Investigations:
If a taxpayer is under review for compliance checks, an HMRC caseworker might contact them. However, they should confirm their identity before discussing any tax matters.
Genuine Callbacks Requested by the Taxpayer:
If you’ve recently called HMRC and requested a callback, an HMRC representative might return your call from a mobile number. However, this is still uncommon.
Field Agents Conducting Visits:
If an HMRC officer is visiting a business or taxpayer for an audit, they may use a mobile number to communicate. But they will always carry official HMRC identification.
While these exceptions exist, 99% of legitimate HMRC calls will come from a landline. If you receive a call from a mobile number claiming to be from HMRC, it is almost certainly a scam.
How Do You Verify if an HMRC Call is Genuine?
To check if an HMRC call is legitimate, follow these steps:
1. Check the Phone Number
HMRC calls usually come from 0300 numbers (e.g., 0300 200 3300 for Self Assessment inquiries).
If you receive a call from a mobile number, be highly suspicious.
You can verify official contact numbers on the HMRC website: Contact HMRC.
2. Listen for Red Flags
HMRC will never demand an immediate payment over the phone.
They will not ask for your bank details or National Insurance number out of the blue.
Threats of arrest or legal action are classic scam tactics.
3. Call HMRC Back
If you are unsure, hang up and call HMRC directly using the official number listed on GOV.UK.
Never redial the number that just called you—it could be a scammer.
4. Report Suspicious Calls
If you suspect a scam, report it to Action Fraud UK at 0300 123 2040.
You can also email HMRC’s phishing team: phishing@hmrc.gov.uk.
Latest Scam Trends: How Criminals Impersonate HMRC
Scammers are becoming more sophisticated in mimicking HMRC. In 2024, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) reported:
Over 38 million phishing attempts reported to HMRC and NCSC.
205,000 scam websites impersonating HMRC were shut down.
A 35% increase in phone scams impersonating HMRC compared to 2023.
Common Scam Tactics Include:
Fake Refunds: “You are eligible for a tax refund. Click this link to claim.”
Threats of Legal Action: “You owe tax. If you do not pay, you will be arrested.”
Fake HMRC Callbacks: A scammer claims to be an HMRC officer and asks you to call back.
Bitcoin or Gift Card Payments: HMRC never asks for tax payments via cryptocurrency or gift cards.
These scams rely on fear and urgency. Always pause, verify, and report suspicious calls.
Summary:
To summarise:
✅ HMRC rarely calls taxpayers, and almost never from a mobile number.
✅ If you receive a mobile call claiming to be from HMRC, be very cautious.
✅ Always verify phone numbers and report suspicious calls to Action Fraud UK.
How HMRC Scam Calls Work and Real-Life Examples
Now that we’ve established that HMRC does not usually call from a mobile number, let’s take a closer look at how scammers operate, the most common types of HMRC-related fraud, and real-life examples of people who have fallen victim to these scams.
How Do HMRC Scam Calls Work?
Fraudsters impersonating HMRC use a variety of methods to deceive UK taxpayers. The most common techniques include:
1. Caller ID Spoofing
Scammers can manipulate caller ID so that it appears as an official HMRC number (e.g., 0300 200 3300). In reality, they are calling from an untraceable number. This trick is called "spoofing" and makes the scam seem more believable.
2. Urgent Tax Payment Demands
Victims receive a call claiming they owe tax and must pay immediately or face legal action. The scammer may say:
"You owe £2,500 in unpaid tax. If you do not pay today, a warrant for your arrest will be issued."
"HMRC has detected fraud on your tax account. If you do not respond, the police will visit your home."
These threats create fear and panic, making victims more likely to comply.
3. Fake Tax Refund Offers
Another scam involves a call claiming that the recipient is due a tax refund but must "verify their details" before receiving the money. The fraudster will ask for:
Bank details
National Insurance number
Personal information
HMRC never asks for these details over the phone.
4. Scam Calls Targeting the Self-Employed and Small Businesses
In 2024, self-employed workers and small business owners were among the biggest targets for HMRC phone scams. Fraudsters prey on:
Business owners who recently submitted Self Assessment tax returns.
Individuals expecting a tax refund.
People unaware of HMRC’s official communication methods.
If a business owner recently filed a tax return, they may believe the call is real, making them more vulnerable.
5. Scam Calls Demanding Payment via Unusual Methods
A clear sign of fraud is when an HMRC "representative" demands payment through:
Cryptocurrency (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.)
Gift cards (Amazon, Google Play, iTunes, etc.)
Bank transfers to an overseas account
These are all 100% scams—HMRC never requests payments in these ways.
Real-Life Examples of HMRC Scam Calls
Let’s look at actual cases where UK taxpayers were targeted by fraudsters pretending to be from HMRC.
Case 1: Pensioner Loses £8,000 in Fake HMRC Call
In November 2024, a 72-year-old woman from Manchester received a call from a mobile number claiming to be HMRC.
The fraudster told her she owed £8,000 in unpaid tax and would be arrested within 24 hours if she did not pay.
Fearing legal trouble, she followed the scammer’s instructions and transferred the money via bank transfer.
The woman later contacted her bank, but the money was already gone.
Case 2: Small Business Owner Nearly Pays £3,500 in Bitcoin
A business owner in London got a call in January 2025 from someone claiming to be an HMRC officer.
The scammer spoofed HMRC’s official number (0300 200 3300), making it seem legitimate.
They demanded a tax payment of £3,500 in Bitcoin, saying failure to pay would result in the business being shut down.
The business owner hesitated and decided to call HMRC directly—only then did they realise it was a scam.
Case 3: Teacher Gets Fake HMRC Arrest Warrant Call
A schoolteacher in Birmingham received a call from a mobile number saying they had an outstanding tax bill of £1,200.
The scammer played a recorded message stating that HMRC had issued a warrant for their arrest.
The teacher panicked and almost provided their bank details before realising it was suspicious and hanging up.
They later checked HMRC’s website and found that no such arrest warrants are ever issued over the phone.
These examples highlight the psychological tactics scammers use—fear, urgency, and manipulation.
How to Identify a Fake HMRC Call
Red Flags | What HMRC Actually Does |
Calls from a mobile number | HMRC uses landlines (e.g., 0300 200 3300). |
Threats of immediate arrest | HMRC never issues arrest warrants by phone. |
Requests for bank details | HMRC does not ask for these over the phone. |
Demands for cryptocurrency/gift cards | HMRC only accepts payments via bank transfer or card. |
Urgent requests with no written notice | HMRC always sends written communication first. |
By knowing these warning signs, you can avoid falling victim to HMRC impersonation scams.
What to Do If You Receive a Suspicious HMRC Call
If you receive a call claiming to be from HMRC but it seems suspicious, follow these steps:
Hang Up Immediately
Do not engage with the caller.
Do not press any buttons or follow any instructions.
Verify the Call
Check HMRC’s official phone numbers on GOV.UK.
Call HMRC directly if you are unsure.
Report the Scam
Action Fraud UK: 0300 123 2040
HMRC Phishing Team: phishing@hmrc.gov.uk
Forward scam texts to: 60599
Warn Others
If you receive a scam call, post about it online or inform friends and family.
Raising awareness helps prevent fraud.
Latest Government Warnings on HMRC Scams (2024-2025)
The UK government has issued multiple warnings about the rising number of HMRC scams. Here are some recent updates:
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) shut down 205,000 fake HMRC scam websites in 2024.
Over 38 million scam reports were made to HMRC last year.
Scam calls impersonating HMRC increased by 35% in 2024 compared to 2023.
These statistics show that HMRC scam calls are more frequent than ever, and being aware is crucial.
Summary:
To summarise:
✅ Scammers use fear tactics like arrest threats and fake tax debts to trick victims.
✅ HMRC never demands tax payments over the phone or through cryptocurrency or gift cards.
✅ Always verify HMRC calls by checking GOV.UK or calling HMRC directly.
✅ Report scam calls to Action Fraud UK to help fight fraud.
What Happens If You Owe Tax to HMRC?
Now that we've covered how HMRC communicates and the dangers of scam calls, let’s address a crucial question: What actually happens if you owe tax to HMRC?
Many scams prey on taxpayers’ fear of unpaid tax, using fake debt collection tactics to force quick payments. But in reality, HMRC follows a structured, official process before taking any enforcement action. Understanding this process will help you distinguish genuine tax issues from scams.
How Does HMRC Handle Unpaid Tax?
If you owe tax, HMRC will not immediately threaten you with arrest or demand payment over the phone. Instead, they follow a series of steps:
Step 1: HMRC Sends a Written Notice
If you owe tax, HMRC will always contact you in writing first—by letter, through your online account, or via the HMRC app.
This letter will contain:
The amount you owe.
A deadline for payment.
Instructions on how to pay.
Step 2: Reminder Notices
If you fail to pay by the deadline, HMRC will send reminder letters or emails.
These reminders will direct you to official HMRC payment portals, not third-party websites or personal bank accounts.
Step 3: Interest and Late Payment Penalties
If your tax remains unpaid, HMRC will add interest and late penalties, which increase the longer you delay.
For example, in 2025, the standard late payment interest rate is 7.75% per year.
Step 4: Debt Collection or Court Action
If you ignore multiple reminders, HMRC may:
Pass your debt to a debt collection agency (they will always notify you in advance).
Take legal action through the County Court or High Court.
Issue a garnishment order to deduct money from your wages or bank account.
🚨 Key Fact: HMRC will never demand immediate payment over the phone—they follow a formal legal process.
What If You Cannot Pay Your Tax Bill?
If you genuinely owe tax but cannot afford to pay, HMRC offers solutions:
1. Time to Pay (TTP) Arrangements
You can apply for a payment plan, spreading your debt over 6 to 12 months.
HMRC usually approves TTP if you have a good payment history and explain your financial difficulties.
You can set this up online or by calling HMRC on 0300 200 3822.
2. Request a Payment Extension
In special cases (e.g., illness, redundancy, unexpected financial hardship), HMRC may extend your deadline.
You must contact them before your due date to request an extension.
3. Seek Professional Advice
If your tax debt is unmanageable, speak to:
Citizens Advice (www.citizensadvice.org.uk)
TaxAid UK (www.taxaid.org.uk)
A professional accountant or tax advisor
📌 Important: HMRC is legally obligated to consider reasonable repayment requests. If you receive a phone call demanding full payment immediately, it's almost certainly a scam.
What Payment Methods Does HMRC Accept?
One of the biggest scam warning signs is how you are asked to pay. HMRC only accepts tax payments through official channels, including:
Legitimate Payment Methods | Scam Payment Methods (Avoid!) |
Direct Debit | Bitcoin or Cryptocurrency |
Bank Transfer (Faster Payments, CHAPS, BACS) | Amazon, Google Play, or iTunes Gift Cards |
Debit or Credit Card (via GOV.UK) | Western Union or MoneyGram Transfers |
Cheque (Payable to ‘HM Revenue and Customs’) | Cash Deposits to Unknown Bank Accounts |
🚨 Red Flag: If an "HMRC agent" asks for payment via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or bank transfer to an individual, it’s a scam.
What If HMRC Visits You in Person?
Another common scam involves fraudsters posing as HMRC field officers to demand cash payments. Here’s what to expect if a real HMRC officer visits:
✅ They will carry official identification with:
Their full name and photograph.
An official HMRC logo and contact details.
A unique reference number you can verify by calling HMRC.
✅ They will never request payment on the spot.
HMRC officers do not collect cash or card payments in person.
✅ You can call HMRC to verify their identity.
Call 0300 200 3862 and provide the officer’s name and reference number.
🚨 Scam Warning: If someone claiming to be from HMRC asks for cash or demands you transfer money immediately, they are not genuine.
What If You Genuinely Disagree with Your Tax Bill?
Sometimes, HMRC might claim you owe tax, but you disagree with the amount. In this case, you have rights:
Request a Formal Review
If you believe HMRC made a mistake, you can request a review of your tax calculation.
You must do this within 30 days of receiving a tax bill.
Appeal to a Tax Tribunal
If HMRC refuses to correct the issue, you can take your case to a tax tribunal—an independent legal body that handles tax disputes.
Get Legal Advice
If the amount is significant, consult a tax lawyer or accountant.
📌 Important: Do not pay a tax bill you believe is incorrect. Scammers rely on taxpayers blindly following instructions without verifying their debts.
Latest 2025 HMRC Tax Scam Warnings
The UK Government and HMRC have warned taxpayers about the growing number of tax-related scams in 2025. Here are some of the latest scam trends:
Over 130,000 reports of HMRC scam calls in 2024.
Self-employed workers are being heavily targeted, especially after filing Self Assessment tax returns.
Scammers are using AI-generated voices to impersonate HMRC agents over the phone.
A new text message scam is circulating, claiming that taxpayers owe money for "late VAT payments."
🚨 Reminder: HMRC never demands payment over the phone—if you get a call like this, hang up and report it.
Summary:
✅ If you owe tax, HMRC will always send written notices first—never just call you.
✅ HMRC has legal payment processes—they do not demand instant bank transfers.
✅ If you can’t pay, HMRC offers flexible payment plans (Time to Pay).
✅ Always verify any HMRC visit, phone call, or tax bill before making payments.
How to Report HMRC Scams and Protect Yourself
By now, we’ve established that HMRC does not typically call from a mobile number, and we’ve examined the tactics scammers use to impersonate HMRC. Now, let’s focus on how to report these scams, what government agencies are involved in fighting tax fraud, and how you can protect yourself from becoming a victim.
How to Report an HMRC Scam
If you receive a suspicious call, text, or email claiming to be from HMRC, follow these steps:
1. Report Scam Calls to HMRC
✅ If you receive a phone call from someone claiming to be HMRC, you can:
Report it to HMRC directly using the official HMRC fraud reporting form:
🔗 Report a suspicious HMRC call
Forward details of the call to: phishing@hmrc.gov.uk
2. Report Scam Text Messages (SMS Phishing – “Smishing”)
✅ If you receive a fake HMRC text message, forward it to 60599.
HMRC will investigate and work with telecom providers to block scam numbers.
3. Report Scam Emails (Phishing)
✅ If you receive a suspicious email claiming to be from HMRC, do the following:
Do not click on any links—these could lead to phishing websites.
Forward the email to: phishing@hmrc.gov.uk.
4. Report to Action Fraud UK
✅ If you have lost money due to an HMRC scam, report it immediately to:
Action Fraud UK (the UK’s national fraud reporting center)
📞 Call 0300 123 2040
🔗 Report online: www.actionfraud.police.uk
5. Report Scam Websites to the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC)
✅ If you come across a fake website impersonating HMRC, report it to the NCSC:
🔗 Report a suspicious website
🚨 Remember: The sooner you report a scam, the higher the chances of shutting it down before it affects others.
What Happens After You Report a Scam?
Many people wonder what actually happens when they report an HMRC scam. Here’s what different agencies do:
Agency | What They Do After You Report a Scam |
HMRC | Investigates reported phone numbers and scam tactics. Works with phone providers to block fraudulent calls and texts. |
Action Fraud UK | Logs reports into the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) for further investigation. |
NCSC (National Cyber Security Centre) | Analyzes scam websites and works to shut them down. |
Your Bank (If You Lost Money) | May help recover funds if you acted quickly. Contact them ASAP. |
Scammers change numbers frequently, so even if one is shut down, new ones emerge—that’s why continuous reporting is important.
How to Protect Yourself from HMRC Scams
Aside from reporting scams, there are several ways to proactively protect yourself from fraudsters.
1. Always Verify HMRC’s Contact Details
📌 HMRC only uses official numbers, such as 0300 numbers. You can check the latest list of official numbers on:🔗 GOV.UK: Contact HMRC
2. Never Share Personal Information Over the Phone
✅ If someone asks for your National Insurance (NI) number, bank details, or password, hang up immediately.✅ HMRC never asks for your full banking details over the phone.
3. Be Aware of Caller ID Spoofing
❌ Just because a number looks official (e.g., 0300 200 3300) doesn’t mean it’s real!✅ If in doubt, hang up and call HMRC yourself from the official GOV.UK website.
4. Enable Call Blocking & Filtering
📵 Most smartphones now allow you to block unknown and spam numbers.📲 Register your phone number with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) to reduce scam calls:🔗 TPS Registration (Free)
5. Watch Out for Social Engineering Tricks
🚨 Scammers often pretend to know details about you to gain your trust.✅ Always verify any request for money through official HMRC channels.
What If You Have Already Fallen Victim to an HMRC Scam?
If you’ve already given money or personal information to a scammer, act quickly:
1. Contact Your Bank Immediately
If you sent money via bank transfer, call your bank ASAP and ask if they can reverse the transaction.
If you paid via credit or debit card, ask your bank to stop the payment or file a fraud claim.
2. Report Identity Theft (If Personal Info Was Stolen)
If you gave away personal details (like your National Insurance number or passport details), report the breach to:
HMRC (to flag potential tax fraud)
Action Fraud UK (to prevent identity theft)
3. Check Your HMRC Online Account for Unauthorised Activity
Log in to your HMRC personal tax account and check for any suspicious activity:
🔗 Sign in to HMRC Online
🚨 Warning: Scammers sometimes file fraudulent tax returns in your name to claim refunds—check for any unusual activity!
Recent HMRC Scam Statistics (2024-2025)
According to the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and HMRC, fraud involving HMRC impersonation has increased significantly:
📈 Key 2024-2025 Stats:
Over 130,000 reports of fake HMRC calls were made in 2024.
More than 38 million phishing emails were reported to HMRC last year.
205,000 fraudulent websites impersonating HMRC were shut down.
Self-employed workers and pensioners are the biggest scam targets.
📌 Fact: The most common HMRC scams involve fake tax rebates, urgent debt collection calls, and refund scams via text/email.
Summary:
✅ If you receive a suspicious HMRC call, email, or text, report it immediately.
✅ Scammers rely on fear—stay calm and verify everything through GOV.UK.
✅ Enable call blocking, register for TPS, and never share your financial details over the phone.
✅ If you’ve lost money, contact your bank and Action Fraud UK immediately.
How to Stop HMRC Scam Calls and Protect Your Business
By now, we’ve covered how HMRC officially contacts taxpayers, the methods scammers use, and how to report fraud. But what if you’re constantly getting HMRC scam calls? And how can businesses protect themselves from tax-related fraud?
In this final part, we’ll explore advanced fraud prevention techniques, including how to block scam calls, protect sensitive tax information, and secure your business from tax fraud.
How to Stop HMRC Scam Calls for Good
If you’re receiving frequent scam calls claiming to be from HMRC, here’s what you can do:
1. Block Scam Numbers on Your Phone
Most smartphones have built-in call blocking features:
✅ For iPhones: Open Phone app → Go to Recents → Tap the (i) icon → Select Block This Caller.
✅ For Android: Open Phone app → Long press the scam number → Select Block/Report as Spam.
🔹 Tip: Scammers change numbers frequently. If you get repeated calls, consider using a third-party call-blocking app (e.g., Truecaller, RoboKiller).
2. Register Your Number with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS)
The TPS is the UK’s official "Do Not Call" list. It won’t stop all scams, but it helps reduce telemarketing calls.📌 Register for free: 🔗 TPS Online
🚨 Warning: Some scammers pretend to be from the TPS and ask for payment—TPS is always free.
3. Use Call Screening and Filtering Services
Many UK mobile providers offer free scam call blocking services:
Network | How to Block Scam Calls |
EE | Text CALL to 7726 to report a scam number. |
O2 | Forward scam texts to 7726 or use O2’s Call Protect service. |
Vodafone | Use the Vodafone Secure Net app for call filtering. |
Three | Forward suspicious texts to 7726 and enable Call Screening. |
🔹 Tip: Always check if your mobile provider offers spam call filtering—many do it for free!
4. Be Wary of Follow-Up Scams
Sometimes, scammers call back after you’ve reported them, pretending to be:
"HMRC fraud investigators"
"Your bank’s fraud team"
"The police"
✅ Always call official numbers yourself—don’t trust someone who calls you first!
How Businesses Can Protect Themselves from HMRC Scams
Businesses are often bigger scam targets than individuals, especially small business owners and accountants. Here’s how to protect your company:
1. Keep Business Tax Information Secure
🚨 Scammers target businesses by pretending to be HMRC compliance officers.
✅ Always store sensitive tax information in a secure digital location (not on easily accessible email accounts).
✅ Never share Company UTR (Unique Taxpayer Reference) or VAT details over the phone unless you called HMRC first.
2. Verify HMRC Letters and Calls Before Responding
🔹 If you receive a tax demand, check GOV.UK to see if it's real:
Legitimate tax debts will appear in your HMRC Business Tax Account: 🔗 Sign in to HMRC Business Account
Fake tax demands often contain:
Poor spelling or grammar.
A sense of urgency ("Pay now or face legal action!").
Bank details that don’t match HMRC’s official accounts.
🚨 Warning: If a letter contains a mobile number for "urgent payment," it's a scam.
3. Train Employees to Recognize Tax Scams
Businesses can prevent fraud by educating staff:
✅ Teach employees how to verify HMRC communications.
✅ Set up a company-wide policy that no one makes payments without verifying the request.
✅ Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) for financial accounts—this makes it harder for hackers to access company tax records.
4. Be Cautious of Fake HMRC Auditors
🔹 Some scammers visit business premises, pretending to be HMRC officers.
✅ Always ask for official ID and verify their identity by calling HMRC on 0300 200 3862.
✅ Never hand over business records or make cash payments—HMRC does not collect money in person.
🚨 Warning: If someone claims to be from HMRC but refuses to provide ID, they are a fraudster—call the police immediately.
Future Trends: How HMRC Scams Are Evolving in 2025
Scammers are always changing tactics. Here are some emerging threats for 2025:
🔴 AI-Generated Voices Mimicking HMRC Agents
Fraudsters are using AI voice cloning to impersonate real HMRC officers.
Always verify HMRC calls by calling their official number yourself.
🔴 WhatsApp & Telegram HMRC Scams
Criminals now send fake HMRC messages via WhatsApp, saying:
"You have an unclaimed tax refund—click here to claim."
HMRC does not send tax notices via WhatsApp—report these messages as fraud.
🔴 Deepfake Video Scams
Fake HMRC "officials" are appearing in scam videos, urging people to call a fake tax office number.
Always verify HMRC communications on GOV.UK.
🚨 Stay alert—scammers are constantly evolving. Always verify before taking action.
Summary:
To stop HMRC scam calls permanently:
✅ Block scam numbers and use call filtering services from your mobile provider.
✅ Report all fake calls, texts, and emails to HMRC and Action Fraud UK.
✅ Businesses should train employees to recognize tax fraud attempts.
✅ Stay ahead of new scam trends—fraudsters are now using AI and deepfake technology.
💡 Final Tip: If in doubt, call HMRC directly using an official number from GOV.UK—never trust a call that comes to you first.
Full Article Recap
🔹 Part 1: How HMRC actually contacts taxpayers and why they don’t use mobile numbers.
🔹 Part 2: The most common HMRC scam tactics and real-life fraud cases.
🔹 Part 3: What happens if you really owe tax, how HMRC collects payments, and official tax debt procedures.
🔹 Part 4: How to report HMRC scams and what happens after you report them.
🔹 Part 5: Advanced fraud prevention tips for individuals and businesses.
🚨 Final Reminder: If you receive a suspicious call, hang up and verify everything via:🔗 GOV.UK: Contact HMRC
Summary of the Most Important Points
HMRC rarely calls taxpayers and almost never from a mobile number—most official calls come from 0300 landline numbers.
Scammers impersonate HMRC using caller ID spoofing, fake tax refund offers, and urgent payment threats to trick victims.
HMRC never demands immediate payment over the phone, nor do they accept tax payments via cryptocurrency, gift cards, or cash transfers.
If you owe tax, HMRC will first contact you in writing and offer official payment plans—genuine tax debts will appear in your HMRC online account.
Frequent HMRC scams include fake arrest threats, fraudulent refund claims, and scammers pretending to be compliance officers visiting businesses.
To verify an HMRC call, check GOV.UK, call HMRC directly, and never trust unexpected calls demanding money or personal details.
Report HMRC scam calls, texts, and emails to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk, forward scam texts to 60599, and report financial fraud to Action Fraud UK.
Use mobile call blocking, register with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS), and activate scam protection features from your phone provider.
Businesses should secure tax information, train employees on fraud prevention, and verify all HMRC audits and compliance visits.
New scam tactics for 2025 include AI-generated HMRC voice calls, WhatsApp tax refund scams, and deepfake videos impersonating HMRC officials.
FAQs
Q1: Can HMRC call you about unpaid tax if you have never received a letter first?
A: No, HMRC will always send a written notice before making any calls regarding unpaid tax. If you receive a call out of the blue about a tax debt, it is likely a scam.
Q2: Does HMRC ever leave voicemail messages if you miss their call?
A: HMRC may leave a voicemail but will never ask for personal details, payment, or provide urgent instructions in the message.
Q3: Can HMRC contact businesses by phone for VAT compliance checks?
A: Yes, HMRC may call businesses regarding VAT registration, compliance checks, or research studies, but these calls should always be verified through GOV.UK.
Q4: Will HMRC ever call about pension-related matters?
A: HMRC is working with independent agencies for pension research calls, but these are voluntary and never involve personal or financial requests.
Q5: How can you confirm if an HMRC phone number is genuine?
A: You can verify HMRC phone numbers on the official GOV.UK website under Check if a phone call from HMRC is genuine.
Q6: Can HMRC call you to ask about VAT registration for private schools?
A: Yes, HMRC may contact private schools about VAT registration reminders, but they will not request payments or personal banking details over the phone.
Q7: What should you do if HMRC calls you but you are unsure if it’s real?
A: Hang up and call HMRC back using the official number listed on GOV.UK to verify the call.
Q8: Do HMRC debt collection agencies ever use mobile numbers to call taxpayers?
A: Legitimate debt collection agencies working with HMRC usually contact taxpayers via letters first and will not use mobile numbers for initial calls.
Q9: Can HMRC call you to discuss your tax code or update your tax information?
A: HMRC does not update tax codes over the phone; they notify taxpayers through letters or their online tax accounts.
Q10: Does HMRC contact self-employed individuals by phone regarding Self Assessment?
A: HMRC may send reminders about Self Assessment deadlines, but they will not request payments or bank details over the phone.
Q11: What should you do if you receive multiple scam calls claiming to be from HMRC?
A: Report the scam calls to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk, forward scam texts to 60599, and report fraud to Action Fraud UK at 0300 123 2040.
Q12: Can HMRC call to offer you a tax refund?
A: No, HMRC never calls to offer tax refunds. Refund notifications are only sent via official letters or through your online tax account.
Q13: Does HMRC ever call to warn businesses about penalties before issuing fines?
A: HMRC typically issues written warnings before enforcing penalties and does not use phone calls as the primary method of notification.
Q14: Can HMRC ever request an in-person meeting via a phone call?
A: HMRC may schedule compliance visits, but such meetings are confirmed in writing and do not involve unexpected calls requesting immediate action.
Q15: What is the best way to stop receiving repeated scam calls from fake HMRC numbers?
A: Register your number with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS), use call-blocking apps, and report persistent scam calls to your mobile provider.
Q16: Can HMRC call you to confirm your National Insurance number?
A: No, HMRC never calls to request or confirm National Insurance numbers. Such calls are scams attempting to steal personal information.
Q17: Does HMRC work with third-party research companies to conduct phone surveys?
A: Yes, HMRC works with independent agencies like People for Research and IFF Research, but participation is voluntary, and no financial details are requested.
Q18: What should you do if you accidentally share personal details with a scammer posing as HMRC?
A: Contact your bank immediately, report the scam to Action Fraud UK, and inform HMRC to prevent possible fraud against your tax account.
Q19: Can HMRC ever contact you via WhatsApp, Telegram, or other messaging apps?
A: No, HMRC does not use WhatsApp, Telegram, or similar messaging apps for tax-related communication. Any such messages are scams.
Q20: Will HMRC call you to discuss tax returns for previous years that you have already filed?
A: HMRC may contact you if there is a compliance check, but they will never ask for payment or personal details without prior written notification.
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