A message claiming you are owed a tax refund can look convincing, especially when it uses official-sounding language and a sense of urgency. The core point to remember is simple: HMRC never offers refunds by text or email.
How the scam usually works
You may get a text, email, or call saying you have overpaid tax and need to claim a refund quickly. The message often includes a link to a fake website that asks for bank details, card details, or login information. Once those details are entered, they can be used to take money or access accounts.
Watch for pressure to act fast, a link that does not match the real HMRC site, and a request for personal or banking information by message. A genuine tax matter is not handled by asking you to click a refund link in a text.
What to do if you get one
Do not click the link, do not reply, and do not enter bank details. Delete the message or report it through the usual phishing-reporting route for your phone or email provider. If you are unsure about a tax matter, go to HMRC directly through its official site or contact route, rather than following a link sent to you.
A quick check before you act
Pause and ask: did this arrive by text or email promising a refund? If so, treat it as suspect. Check the sender address, not just the display name, and never share bank details in response to an unexpected refund offer.
Read the full guide on WarnScams: https://warnscams.com/hmrc-tax-refund-scam/
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