Scots have been warned about a new scam that could result in significant financial losses as the new year approaches. Fraudsters are exploiting the period following the festive season, sending messages that appear to originate from the HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). Victims could potentially lose thousands of pounds if they fall for these deceptive tactics.
As people transition into 2026, many are grappling with financial strain following holiday expenditures. This makes them more susceptible to scams, particularly those involving tax rebates and refunds. Concerned citizens are being urged to exercise caution when receiving unexpected messages regarding money during this time of year.
Scammers Exploit Financial Anxiety
Caroline Butler, a thrifting expert, has taken to social media to alert the public about these scams, which become prevalent each January. In a recent TikTok video, she stated, “This is a scam that explodes every single January, and people have lost thousands of pounds in the past because of it.” She emphasized that scammers capitalize on the heightened anxiety many feel about their finances at the start of a new year.
Butler explained that fraudsters are sending messages designed to provoke anxiety or curiosity. She showcased a screenshot of a fraudulent text message that encourages recipients to click on a link to claim an “outstanding tax refund.” Additionally, some scammers are impersonating the HMRC and sending emails containing malicious links.
“It’s crucial to be incredibly mindful and stay on your guard,” Butler cautioned. The HMRC will never send links in text messages, which should serve as a warning sign for recipients. Clicking on these links and entering personal or financial information can give scammers easy access to sensitive data, potentially leading to identity theft.
Butler further advised individuals to refrain from replying to suspicious messages and to contact the HMRC only through official channels, such as their website or official tax account.
Community Experiences and Official Warnings
Many viewers of Butler’s video have shared their own experiences with similar scams. One commenter noted, “I’ve had these texts for months… all from a mobile number, which is a giveaway to start with. I report and block.” Another person mentioned, “Usually, they send a letter saying the previous tax year you overpaid, or they just sent a receipt.”
The HMRC has also issued warnings regarding communications that pressure individuals to act quickly, whether through phone calls, emails, or texts. This includes unexpected or threatening messages. According to the HMRC, “Concerned customers reported more than 170,000 scam referrals to HMRC in the 12 months to July 31, 2025. While this represents a 12 percent reduction compared to the previous year, over 47,000 of these reports still involved fake tax refund claims.”
Individuals receiving communications claiming to be from the HMRC should verify their authenticity by consulting the official HMRC scams guidance. Remaining vigilant is essential as the new year begins, ensuring that people do not fall victim to these increasingly sophisticated scams.
