HMRC impersonation scams in detail

By using the authority of HMRC against you, scammers can panic you into sending them large amounts of money.

Learn how to spot when someone is pretending to be HMRC, and how to avoid getting scammed.

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How HMRC impersonation scams often work

The scammer contacts you Having found out that you're self-employed

The scammer impersonates HMRC Claiming that you have unpaid tax and are facing legal action

You send money to the scammer's account Believing it to be HMRC's account

How to protect yourself from HMRC scams

When someone contacts you

Don't trust contact details

Scammers can spoof HMRC's number and email address.

Never trust someone who has contacted you just because they're using HMRC's contact details.

Restart the conversation

If you don't trust who's calling you 100%, end the conversation and contact HMRC yourself.

It's difficult for scammers to intercept a call you make to someone else, but it's easy for them to call you.

When someone makes demands

Don't make immediate payments

Scammers posing as HMRC often threaten a penalty or legal charges if you don't pay them immediately.

The real HMRC would never pressure you to make payments over the phone. Always feel confident to end the conversation and double check what's being said.

Don't share personal information

While it's normal for certain information to be requested, there are things you should never share.

HMRC will never ask you to tell their staff any one-time passcodes, verification codes or your full banking or card information. Even if they're promising to pay you a tax refund.

Don't click links or scan QR codes

Scammers often message or email you about a 'tax refund'. This will often have a link for you to click and then input your details to be paid.

HMRC will never message or email you a link for you to provide your personal details, so don't ever trust one.

An HMRC impersonation scam in action

This quick video shows how an HMRC impersonation scam might happen, so you can be prepared in case you're ever contacted by a scammer.

What to do if you've been (or suspect you've been) targeted

Report it to Tide immediately By calling 159 from the UK, or tapping the Support icon in the top right corner > Report fraud in your Tide app. Both options are available 24/7.

Apply for reimbursement of your lost capital You may be eligible to your money reimbursed. Find more information on this below.

Find victim support groups There are many services set up to help people through the difficulties of being defrauded. We've listed resources you can access below.