The number of scam telephone calls has increased across the UK. 

Many of these scams involve fraudsters pretending to be from HMRC – the UK’s tax authority. 

These HMRC scam telephone calls can be alarming, convincing, and designed to create panic.

Scammers often claim you owe tax, are facing legal action, or will be arrested if you do not respond immediately. 

These threats are false, but they can sound very real, especially to those who are not expecting such calls.

Knowing the signs of an HMRC scam telephone call is vital. 

Understanding how these scams work and how to protect yourself can prevent financial loss and stress. 

In this article, we’ll explain what HMRC scam telephone calls are, how to spot them, what to do if you fall victim, and how to stay safe.

What are HMRC Scam Telephone Calls?

HMRC scam telephone calls are fraudulent calls where scammers pretend to be representatives of HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). 

These calls are designed to trick people into handing over personal details, banking information, or even making immediate payments. 

The scammers use fear, urgency, and confusion to pressure their victims into taking action without stopping to think.

In many cases, these calls are made using automated messages. 

The recording might state that you owe unpaid tax, are facing legal action, or are at risk of arrest if you don’t respond. 

You may be told to ‘press 1 to speak to an officer’ or be threatened with serious consequences. 

In other cases, a live caller will impersonate a tax official and speak in a firm or aggressive tone.

These HMRC scam telephone calls can be very convincing. 

Some fraudsters use spoofing technology to make it appear as if the call is coming from an official HMRC number. 

They may also have basic information about you, such as your name or address, which can make the scam seem more genuine.

It’s important to know that HMRC does not contact people by phone to demand immediate payment, especially not with threats of arrest. 

They also do not ask for payment through gift cards, bank transfers to unknown accounts, or cryptocurrency.

Recognising these calls and understanding how they operate is the first step in protecting yourself from falling victim to this growing type of fraud.

How to Identify HMRC Scam Telephone Calls

Knowing how to spot a scam call is key to protecting yourself from fraud. 

HMRC scam telephone calls often use fear and urgency to pressure you into acting quickly. 

Here are the main warning signs to look out for:

Threatening Language

Scammers often claim that you owe tax or are facing arrest, legal action, or fines. 

HMRC does not threaten arrest by phone. 

If a caller uses aggressive or alarming language, it’s likely a scam.

Demands for Immediate Payment

Be cautious if the caller demands immediate payment. 

Fraudsters may ask for payment via bank transfer, gift cards, or cryptocurrency – all of which are not used by HMRC.

Automated Messages

Many scam calls use a recorded message claiming to be from HMRC. 

It may ask you to press a number to speak to someone or pay a debt. 

HMRC does not use pre-recorded messages to communicate about tax matters.

Caller ID Spoofing

Scammers can make the call appear as if it’s from a legitimate HMRC number. 

Always verify the caller independently using contact details from the official https://www.gov.uk/ website.

Requests for Personal Information

Be wary if the caller asks for your National Insurance number, bank details, or passwords. 

HMRC will never ask for full personal details or login information over the phone.

What to do if You Fall Victim to HMRC Scam Telephone Calls?

Falling for a scam can be upsetting, but acting quickly can help limit the damage. 

If you believe you’ve been tricked by an HMRC scam telephone call, follow these steps:

Stay Calm and Act Fast

Try not to panic. 

Many people fall victim to scams. 

The most important thing is to act quickly and report the incident.

Report the Scam to HMRC

Forward any details of the call to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk. 

If you received a suspicious text message, forward it to 60599. 

You can also call HMRC directly using a number from the official GOV.UK website to check if the contact was genuine.

Contact Your Bank Immediately

If you have made a payment or shared banking details, contact your bank straight away. 

They may be able to stop the transaction or advise on next steps. 

Many banks have dedicated fraud teams to assist in such cases.

Report to Action Fraud

Report the scam to Action Fraud or call 0300 123 2040. 

This helps authorities investigate and track scam patterns.

Change Your Passwords

If you’ve shared login details or suspect your information may be compromised, change your passwords immediately. 

Use strong, unique passwords for each account.

Stay Vigilant

Watch for further scam attempts and monitor your bank statements. 

If anything seems unusual, report it straight away. 

Being alert after an attack can help you prevent further harm.

How to Protect Yourself from HMRC Scam Telephone Calls?

Scammers can be very convincing, but there are simple steps you can take to protect yourself from HMRC scam telephone calls. 

Being cautious, informed, and prepared makes it harder for fraudsters to succeed.

Know How HMRC Contacts You

HMRC usually contacts people by letter or through your online tax account. 

They may call in certain situations, but they will never use aggressive language, threaten arrest, or demand immediate payment. 

They also will not ask for payment via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or bank transfers to random accounts.

Don’t Share Personal Details Over the Phone

Never share sensitive information (like your National Insurance number, bank details, or passwords) unless you are certain the caller is genuine. 

If you’re unsure, hang up and contact HMRC directly using a verified number from the government’s website.

Use Caller ID and Call Blocking

Some smartphones and landlines offer caller ID or scam call warnings. 

Consider installing call-blocking apps or using services from your phone provider to reduce the risk of receiving scam calls.

Keep Your Devices Secure

Ensure your phone, computer, and internet connection are secure and up to date. 

Use antivirus software and be wary of any links or attachments sent by unknown contacts.

Talk About Scams with Friends and Family

Raising awareness among loved ones, especially older relatives, can help prevent more people from falling victim to these scams. 

A simple conversation could make all the difference.

Stay Informed

Check the HMRC website regularly for updates on common scams. 

The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be.

Other Types of HMRC Scams

While scam telephone calls are one of the most common tactics used by fraudsters pretending to be from HMRC, they are far from the only method. 

Criminals use a range of scams to trick people into handing over personal details or money. Knowing about these different scams helps you stay one step ahead.

HMRC Email Scams

These phishing emails often look official and may even include the HMRC logo or similar formatting. 

They usually claim you are owed a tax rebate or that you need to verify your account. 

A link in the email will take you to a fake website designed to steal your personal information or bank details. 

HMRC will never notify you of a refund by email, nor will they ask you to click on a link to provide personal or financial information.

HMRC Text Message Scams

Scammers may also send fraudulent SMS messages that claim to be from HMRC. 

These messages might warn of missed payments, offer tax rebates, or demand urgent action. 

They often include a link that leads to a fake website. 

Forward any suspicious texts to 60599 and delete the message.

HMRC Social Media Scams

Some scammers use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter to pose as HMRC or offer help with tax issues. 

They may create fake support pages or send private messages offering tax advice or refunds. 

HMRC does not use social media to deal with personal tax matters or to request information.

Fake HMRC Letters

Though less common, some fraudsters go as far as sending fake letters in the post. 

These letters may demand payment or include a contact number for a bogus helpline. 

Always compare letters with any official communication you’ve received from HMRC before taking any action.

WhatsApp and Messaging App Scams

In some cases, criminals use apps like WhatsApp or Signal to send scam messages. 

These may contain similar threats or refund offers. 

HMRC does not contact customers via WhatsApp or other messaging apps.

Conclusion

You should now have more of an understanding of HMRC scam telephone calls.

HMRC scam telephone calls are sadly becoming more common. 

They are designed to cause fear and pressure people into making quick decisions, often with serious consequences. 

These scams can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or technical knowledge.

By learning to recognise the signs, staying cautious, and knowing how HMRC really communicates, you can protect yourself and others. 

Never rush into giving away information, sending money, or clicking on links. 

When in doubt, hang up and contact HMRC directly through their official website or helpline.

Reporting scams and spreading awareness also helps others avoid becoming victims. 

The more people know about these frauds, the less power scammers have.

Stay informed, trust your instincts, and always think twice when receiving unexpected contact about your taxes. 

A moment of caution could save you a great deal of stress, time, and money.