Scam warning as fraudsters target self-assessment filers

Those who need to file a self-assessment tax return are being warned to stay alert when it comes to fraudsters.

Figures show that concerned taxpayers reported nearly 150,000 scam referrals to HMRC in the last year with around half being fake tax rebate claims.

There has been a 16.7% increase in all scam referrals to HMRC – 144,298 were received between November 2023 and October 2024, up from 123,596 in the previous 12-month period.

HMRC urges people to stay vigilant as the self-assessment deadline date (31^st January) approaches.

Kelly Paterson, Chief Security Officer at HMRC, said, “With millions of people filing their Self Assessment return before January’s deadline, we’re warning everyone to be wary of emails promising tax refunds.

“Being vigilant helps you spot potential scams. And reporting anything suspicious helps us stop criminal activity and to protect you and others who could have received similar bogus communication.

“Our advice remains unchanged. Don’t rush into anything, take your time and check ‘HMRC scams advice’ on GOV.UK.”

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