Thousands of Self Assessment Scams Reported as Filing Deadline Approaches

HMRC has warned taxpayers to stay alert after thousands of Self Assessment–related scams were reported in recent months. The alert comes as the 31 January filing deadline draws closer, a period when scammers are known to increase activity by impersonating tax authorities.

According to HMRC, fraudsters often target people at this time of year because many taxpayers expect to hear from the department. This makes it easier for scam messages to appear convincing, particularly when they reference tax bills, refunds or enforcement action.

Sharp Rise in Self Assessment Scams

Since February 2025, more than 4,800 Self Assessment scams have been reported to HMRC. Over the same period, the department received more than 135,500 reports of suspected HMRC-related scams across all tax areas.

A significant portion of these reports involved fake tax refund claims, with around 29,000 scams attempting to trick people into believing they were owed money. HMRC says these messages are designed to pressure recipients into clicking links or sharing personal and financial information.

The scale of reporting highlights how frequently criminals attempt to exploit the Self Assessment process, particularly during peak filing periods.

How Self Assessment Scammers Target Taxpayers

HMRC says scammers typically use emails, text messages and phone calls that appear urgent or threatening. These communications may claim that tax is overdue, legal action is imminent or that immediate steps are required to secure a refund.

The messages are designed to create panic or urgency, making people more likely to respond without checking whether the contact is genuine. In many cases, the communication closely imitates official HMRC branding, language and formatting.

HMRC has reiterated that it does not use these methods to request sensitive information. Unexpected messages asking for personal details or payments should be treated with caution, particularly if they include links or attachments.

What HMRC Is Doing to Tackle Scam Activity

HMRC says it has taken action to disrupt scam operations by shutting down nearly 25,000 fake websites and phone numbers in the past 10 months. These sites and numbers were linked to attempts to impersonate the tax authority.

The department has also reminded taxpayers of how HMRC communicates. It does not leave voicemails threatening arrest or legal action, does not request personal or financial information by email or text and does not contact people unexpectedly to tell them they are due a refund.

Taxpayers are encouraged to check whether a message claiming to be from HMRC is genuine by using guidance available on GOV.UK before responding.

How Taxpayers Can Protect Themselves

HMRC advises people to take time before responding to any unexpected tax-related communication. Using strong, unique passwords and avoiding sharing information unless the contact has been verified can reduce the risk of fraud.

If a message seems suspicious, HMRC recommends not replying, not clicking links and not downloading attachments. Caller ID should also not be relied upon, as phone numbers can be spoofed to appear legitimate.

Suspicious emails can be forwarded to HMRC’s phishing address, text messages can be reported via the dedicated shortcode, and scam phone calls can be reported through GOV.UK. Anyone who believes money has been stolen is advised to contact their bank immediately and report the incident to the relevant authorities.

Conclusion

With the Self Assessment deadline approaching on 31 January 2026, HMRC is urging taxpayers to remain vigilant and cautious when receiving tax-related messages. Scam activity tends to increase during this period, making awareness particularly important.

HMRC has stressed that genuine refunds can be claimed securely through an official online account or the HMRC app. By checking communications carefully and reporting suspected scams, taxpayers can help protect themselves and reduce the risk of others being targeted.