Got a text from “HMRC” about a tax refund?
Fake HMRC messages promise a tax refund or threaten a fine, then send you to a link that steals your card or bank details. Paste yours below to check it.
What this scam usually looks like
Text claiming to be HMRCHMRC: You are due a tax refund of £326.40. Claim before midnight: hmrc-refund-gov.co
Red flags
- A tax refund you weren't expecting
- A deadline like “claim before midnight”
- A link that isn't gov.uk
- Asking for card or bank details to “receive” the refund
What to do
- Don't click the link or reply.
- Forward suspicious HMRC texts to 60599 (network rates apply), and HMRC emails to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk, then delete them.
- Check your tax yourself by signing in at gov.uk, not through a link in a message.
- If you've lost money, call your bank straight away, then report it to Report Fraud (formerly Action Fraud) at reportfraud.police.uk or on 0300 123 2040.
Questions
Does HMRC text about tax refunds?
No. GOV.UK says HMRC will never send notifications of a tax rebate, or ask you to share personal or payment information, by text message.
What if it came by email?
HMRC only emails about rebates or asks for details from addresses ending in hmrc.gov.uk. Forward anything suspicious to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk.
Worried about your mum or dad?
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