HMRC Scam Calls — The "Tax Arrest" Phone Fraud

The "HMRC scam" is a long-running phone fraud in which an automated voice — or a person with a script — claims to be from HM Revenue & Customs, alleging you owe back-tax and threatening arrest unless you pay immediately. HMRC has confirmed publicly that it never makes calls of this kind.

Warning signs

• Caller threatens immediate arrest or deportation over an alleged tax debt.
• Demands payment by bank transfer, gift voucher (iTunes/Amazon), or cryptocurrency.
• Refuses to send anything in writing or give you a case reference you can verify.
• Caller-ID looks like a 020 or 0300 government number — easy to spoof.

Real-world scripts

• ""This is HMRC. There is a warrant for your arrest in connection with a tax fraud. Press 1 to speak to your case officer.""
• ""Your National Insurance number has been involved in fraud and will be suspended.""

If you receive this call

• Hang up. Real HMRC contact begins by post.
• Forward suspicious texts pretending to be HMRC to 7726.
• Report scam calls to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk.
• Add the number to GhostCallers so others searching it see your warning.

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