Have you received an unexpected text message from HMRC? Before you panic or click a link, take a moment to check it. HMRC does send genuine text messages to taxpayers. However, scammers also pretend to be HMRC to steal money and personal information.
HMRC recently updated its guidance on spotting fake messages. The changes include advice on social media scams. It has also added information about text messages concerning overdue Self Assessment tax and VAT registration applications. Read HMRC’s official guidance here.
So, how can you tell whether an HMRC message is genuine? Here’s what to look out for.
Why is HMRC sending text messages?
HMRC uses text messages for certain updates and reminders. These messages can relate to your tax affairs or an application you have made.
For example, HMRC has confirmed that it may send text messages about:
- Overdue Self Assessment tax: A message may tell you that your tax is overdue and ask you to check your online account.
- VAT registration applications: If you have applied to register for VAT, HMRC may send updates about your application.
- Other tax matters: HMRC also sends certain confirmations and updates following contact with its teams.
These messages do not automatically mean something is wrong. However, you should always check an unexpected message before taking action.
5 ways to spot a fake HMRC message
1. Watch out for urgent demands
Scammers often try to frighten people into acting quickly. A message might threaten legal action or claim you must pay immediately to avoid serious consequences.
HMRC advises taxpayers to be cautious of messages that rush or threaten them.
If a message makes you feel pressured, stop and check it. You do not need to act through a link in an unexpected text.
2. Be suspicious of unexpected tax refunds
A message claiming you are owed a tax refund can sound tempting. However, scammers often use fake rebates to trick people into sharing their details.
HMRC will not send a text message asking you to provide personal or financial information to claim a refund.
If you think you may be due money back, check your HMRC online account or use the official HMRC app instead.
3. Check links before clicking
Some scam messages contain links to websites that look almost identical to official government pages.
These sites may ask for your bank details, passwords or other personal information.
Never assume a link is safe just because the message looks professional. Instead, open your browser and visit GOV.UK yourself. You can then sign in to your HMRC account securely.
HMRC does sometimes include links to GOV.UK information or its webchat in genuine texts. The presence of a link alone does not prove a message is fake.
4. Check who is contacting you on social media
Scammers do not just use texts and emails. They also create fake social media accounts that pretend to represent HMRC.
HMRC will never use social media to offer you a tax rebate or request personal or financial information.
Be particularly careful if an account sends you a private message asking for your details or offering to resolve a tax problem.
If you cannot verify that the account is genuine, do not reply or share information. You can report suspicious HMRC-related social media accounts to branddefence@hmrc.gov.uk.
5. Check HMRC’s official guidance
Still unsure? HMRC maintains a list of genuine text messages to help taxpayers check what they have received.
The list includes information about specific messages, why HMRC sends them and what they should contain.
Compare your message with the official guidance before taking any action.
You can find it here: Check if a text message you’ve received from HMRC is genuine.
What should you do if you receive a suspicious message?
If you think a message could be a scam, follow these steps:
- Do not click any links. Avoid opening suspicious links or attachments.
- Do not share your details. Never provide passwords, security codes or banking information in response to an unexpected message.
- Check your tax account. Go directly to GOV.UK rather than using the link in the message.
- Report the message. Forward suspicious HMRC text messages to 60599. Network charges may apply. You can also forward suspicious emails to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk.
- Delete the message. Once you have reported it, remove it from your phone or inbox.
If you have already shared personal details or lost money, take action as soon as possible. Contact your bank if your financial information may be at risk and report the incident through the appropriate official channels.
What if you genuinely owe HMRC tax?
It is important not to ignore a real tax liability because you are worried about scams.
If you receive a message about overdue Self Assessment tax, check your HMRC online account independently. If you have a tax adviser, you can also ask them to help you understand your position.
Remember, a genuine tax bill will not disappear simply because you ignore a text message. Checking your account can help you establish whether you need to take action.
If you are unsure about your tax position, seek advice before making a payment you cannot verify.
Stay safe and stay informed
Scam messages can look convincing, particularly when they mention a real tax issue. The best approach is to pause, check the facts and use official channels.
HMRC does send genuine texts, so you do not need to assume every message is fake. Equally, never trust a message simply because it uses the HMRC name or logo.
At JDH Accountants & Business Advisers, we want business owners to feel confident about their finances and know where to turn when they need support. If you have questions about your Self Assessment tax, VAT registration or other tax responsibilities, our team is here to help.
Get in touch with JDH for friendly, professional advice and a little more peace of mind.