As technology continues to evolve, so too do the methods used by fraudsters looking to exploit unsuspecting individuals. Among the growing number of scams in circulation, one of the more concerning involves fraudsters impersonating HMRC officials and leaving threatening voicemail messages. These fraudulent calls are designed to cause alarm, prompt immediate action, and ultimately extract personal or financial information from victims.
Unlike phishing attempts via email or traditional scam letters, these voicemail scams rely heavily on creating a sense of urgency. A phone call, especially one involving official-sounding threats—feels personal, making it more convincing. Understanding how these scams work is essential for anyone who interacts with HMRC, particularly during key points in the tax calendar.
Common Tactics Used in Voicemail Scams
There are currently two widely reported variations of this scam. The first involves a robotic male voice that informs the recipient there is a warrant out for their arrest. It goes on to claim that a legal case is being filed against them and urges them to call back using a specific number. The message warns that ignoring it will lead to further legal consequences.
The second version involves a female voice identifying herself as Officer Sarah Wilson from HMRC. This caller asks the recipient or their legal representative to return the call immediately. Like the first message, she uses legal threats and pressure to scare the recipient into complying.
These tactics are designed to trigger fear. They use the appearance of official authority, legal terminology, and the threat of arrest to prompt a rapid, unthinking reaction. The moment someone panics, they are far more likely to act without verifying whether the call is legitimate.
The Psychology Behind the Scam
Fraudsters are well aware that fear is one of the most powerful human motivators. When someone believes they are at risk of arrest, legal action, or financial penalties, their natural response is to seek immediate resolution. These scam messages exploit that instinct.
By insisting the situation is urgent and that there will be consequences for failing to act, the caller removes the victim’s opportunity to think rationally. The combination of fear and urgency overrides logical thought, making people more susceptible to manipulation. This is why so many people—even those who consider themselves cautious—can fall for these schemes.
Target Demographics
While anyone can receive one of these fraudulent messages, certain individuals are more likely to be targeted. Self-employed workers, freelancers, and small business owners are often expecting communication from HMRC, particularly around tax season. This expectation makes them more vulnerable to scam attempts.
However, the scam is not limited to these groups. Retirees, salaried employees, and even students have reported receiving similar voicemails. Scammers cast a wide net, hoping to catch as many people as possible. Because they use automated systems to deliver these messages, reaching thousands of people in a short amount of time is easy and cost-effective for them.
When Scams Are Most Likely to Occur
Timing plays a critical role in the success of these scams. Messages tend to increase in volume around key points in the tax year. The weeks leading up to Self Assessment deadlines, tax rebate periods, and payment due dates are prime time for fraudsters to strike.
This is because people are already anticipating communication from HMRC. Receiving a call or voicemail during this period doesn’t seem unusual. In fact, some individuals may believe the call is related to a recent submission or pending payment. The alignment of timing and content makes the message more believable.
Why Voicemail Is an Effective Medium
In the past, phishing scams were primarily conducted via email. Over time, public awareness of email-based fraud increased, prompting scammers to shift their methods. Voicemails have emerged as a new avenue because they feel more personal and direct.
A voice message eliminates many of the visual clues that typically reveal a scam. There are no misspelled words, no suspicious email addresses, and no obviously fake branding. Instead, the recipient hears a confident, well-structured message delivered with authority. The emotional impact is much stronger, which is exactly what scammers are hoping for.
Consequences of Falling Victim
The damage caused by these scams can be extensive. Financially, victims may end up making payments to the fraudster, believing they are resolving a tax issue. This loss can be especially painful for those already under financial strain.
The risks go beyond monetary loss. Many victims are tricked into providing sensitive personal details, such as their National Insurance number or Unique Taxpayer Reference. Once obtained, this information can be used for identity theft, fraudulent tax claims, and more. Recovering from such breaches is not only time-consuming but can also have long-term implications for credit and legal standing.
Real-World Cases and Reports
Numerous cases have been reported by individuals who received such calls and later discovered they were fraudulent. In many instances, people acted on the message immediately—calling the provided number, supplying information, or even transferring money—only to realise later that they had been deceived.
In response, various consumer protection groups and government agencies have issued alerts. Audio clips of these voicemails have been made publicly available to help others identify them. These real-life examples play a crucial role in public education and prevention.
Importance of Verification
If you receive a voicemail like the ones described, do not act immediately. The best response is to remain calm and avoid engaging with the message. Scammers rely on panic. Your goal should be to break that chain of emotional manipulation.
First, check the caller ID, if available. Then, search for HMRC’s official contact information using a trusted source, such as the government’s official website. Do not call back the number provided in the message. Instead, use the verified contact number to get in touch with HMRC directly.
Explain the situation and ask whether any legitimate communication has been attempted. By making this call from a different phone—especially if the suspicious voicemail was left on your mobile—you avoid accidentally reconnecting with the scammer.
Recognising the Signs
Several characteristics are common to most HMRC scams. These include:
- Urgency or threats of legal action
- Requests for immediate payment
- Demands for personal or financial information
- Messages received during tax-related deadlines
- Use of official-sounding titles and names
Official communication from HMRC will never demand payment via voicemail or ask for sensitive data without proper verification. If any of these red flags appear, assume the message is fraudulent until proven otherwise.
Educating Others
Awareness is one of the most effective tools against fraud. Sharing information about these voicemail scams helps protect others in your circle—family members, colleagues, and friends—who might not be aware of the tactics used.
Discussing recent scams, circulating verified examples, and encouraging others to verify suspicious messages before acting can make a significant difference. Communities that communicate and stay informed are much harder for scammers to infiltrate.
Government and Industry Response
Government agencies and tax authorities have taken several steps to combat these scams. These include publishing alerts, offering reporting tools, and collaborating with telecom providers to trace and shut down scam numbers.
However, fraudsters often use temporary or international numbers that are difficult to trace. This means personal vigilance remains essential. Authorities rely on public reports to track trends and improve preventative measures. By reporting suspicious messages, you contribute to broader efforts to stop fraud.
Building a Personal Defense Strategy
Each individual can take steps to protect themselves. Keep a record of official HMRC correspondence and make note of verified contact numbers. Avoid answering unknown or suspicious numbers. If you receive a voicemail that seems threatening, pause and assess before responding.
Use caller ID and reverse lookup tools when in doubt. Store the correct HMRC contact number on your phone so you can easily compare it to any incoming call claiming to be from them. Never share personal information unless you are absolutely certain of the caller’s identity.
Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated in how they approach potential victims. Voicemail scams that use HMRC’s name are particularly effective due to their use of fear, timing, and professional language. However, by staying informed, verifying messages, and discussing potential scams with others, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim.
This proactive approach empowers you to make rational decisions even under pressure. Protecting your information begins with understanding the threats—and taking deliberate steps to counter them.
Initial Reaction to a Suspicious Voicemail
If you receive a voicemail that claims to be from HMRC and threatens legal action, it’s crucial not to panic. These messages are intentionally designed to evoke fear and force immediate action. The best first step is to take a moment to assess the situation calmly. Don’t rush to return the call or provide any information. Instead, start by reviewing the message logically.
Do not delete the voicemail immediately. Retaining a copy can be useful for reporting the incident to the appropriate authorities. Take note of the exact wording used, the name the caller gave, and the phone number they asked you to contact.
Verifying the Caller
Never rely on the number provided in a suspicious voicemail. Instead, consult HMRC’s official website for their contact details or refer to previous legitimate correspondence you may have received. Call them directly using those verified numbers and explain the situation.
If the call was genuine, HMRC will be able to confirm that and advise on the appropriate next steps. If it was a scam, you’ll have avoided becoming a victim and contributed to broader awareness by reporting the incident.
Cross-Checking the Caller ID
Although caller ID can be spoofed, it’s still worth examining. Some scammers use random or private numbers, while others attempt to mimic legitimate ones. If the number on your display appears suspicious or unusual, do not call it back.
Use online search tools to investigate the number. Numerous scam-reporting websites maintain databases of known fraudulent numbers. If others have reported the same number, you’ll likely find warnings or reviews describing the nature of the scam.
Contacting HMRC Safely
Once you’ve gathered information, use a different phone to call HMRC’s official contact number. This precaution helps you avoid accidentally redialing the scam number, which could reconnect you with the fraudster or trigger further attempts. When you speak to HMRC, clearly describe the content of the voicemail, the phone number it came from (if available), and any details such as names or phrases used in the message. HMRC will verify whether any legitimate communication was intended and provide you with appropriate next steps based on your situation.
It’s also important to keep a detailed record of this interaction. Write down the name and department of the HMRC representative you spoke with, the time and date of the call, and a summary of their advice. This documentation can serve as crucial evidence if the incident escalates or if you need to file a report with Action Fraud or local police. It also helps establish a clear timeline in case of any follow-up from HMRC or future fraudulent contact attempts. Keeping records of all related calls, voicemails, and emails builds a solid foundation for tracking and responding to scam activity effectively.
How to Report the Scam
HMRC has a dedicated process for reporting phishing scams. If you believe you’ve received a fraudulent voicemail, you should:
- Forward details of the message to HMRC’s phishing reporting service.
- Include any available call information, such as the number, time, and content of the message.
- Report the incident to Action Fraud, the UK’s national fraud and cybercrime reporting centre.
Action Fraud provides a platform for logging scams and offers further guidance on protecting yourself. Your report contributes to a national database that helps track trends and shut down scam operations.
Informing Your Mobile or Landline Provider
Your phone service provider may also offer tools for blocking or flagging scam numbers. Informing them of the incident allows them to investigate and potentially block future messages from the same source.
Most major providers have anti-spam and fraud detection services. Some offer scam call identification tools that display warnings when a suspicious number is calling. Activating these features can give you additional protection moving forward.
Protecting Personal Information
If you responded to a suspicious voicemail before realising it was a scam, and you provided personal details, it’s important to act quickly. Begin by contacting your bank to flag any accounts that may be at risk. Ask them to monitor for unusual transactions and consider changing your account details if necessary.
Next, contact HMRC directly to inform them of the breach. They may put a temporary hold on your account to prevent unauthorized access. You should also change any login credentials associated with your HMRC account.
If you share your National Insurance number or Unique Taxpayer Reference, it may be necessary to take additional steps to secure your identity. HMRC can advise on protective actions, such as monitoring your tax records for unusual activity.
Recognising Follow-Up Scams
Once a scammer has successfully contacted you, there is a risk that they will attempt further contact. You may receive follow-up calls, text messages, or even emails claiming to be from HMRC or another authority.
These follow-ups may reference your previous conversation to appear more convincing. Remain cautious and treat any unsolicited messages with skepticism. If you receive another message, follow the same steps: verify the source, do not engage, and report the incident.
Educating Friends and Family
Awareness plays a key role in preventing scam-related losses. Once you’ve encountered a voicemail scam, share your experience with others. Inform friends, family, and colleagues about the tactics used so they can avoid similar situations.
You might even consider creating a checklist of red flags to watch for, such as messages that:
- Threaten immediate legal action
- Request urgent payment
- Ask for personal or financial details
- Are received close to tax deadlines
Providing real-world examples and actionable advice can help protect those around you. Often, a simple conversation is enough to prevent someone from becoming the next victim.
Monitoring for Identity Theft
In the weeks following any scam attempt, keep a close eye on your financial statements and credit reports. Look for any unusual activity, such as new accounts being opened or unexpected charges.
Services are available that monitor your credit file for signs of identity theft. While some are paid, others offer basic alerts free of charge. If you suspect your identity has been compromised, act immediately by contacting the appropriate authorities.
Leveraging Technology for Protection
Modern technology offers several tools to help identify and block scam calls. Consider installing apps on your phone that screen calls and flag known scam numbers. These apps draw from large databases of user-reported numbers and can offer real-time alerts.
In addition, review your voicemail settings. Disable automatic voicemail access if it’s not needed, or use password protection to reduce the risk of unauthorised access. Ensuring that your phone’s security settings are up to date can also prevent malware or data breaches.
Staying Updated on Emerging Scams
Scammers continually evolve their techniques. Staying informed about the latest trends in fraud is a vital step in personal security. Subscribe to updates from trusted sources such as government websites, consumer protection groups, and cybersecurity forums.
These platforms often share alerts about new scams, giving you a head start in recognising and avoiding them. The more informed you are, the more confidently you can respond to suspicious messages.
Legal Resources and Support
Victims of scams can access a range of support services. Legal aid organisations, consumer rights groups, and local law enforcement can all offer assistance. If you experience financial loss, emotional distress, or identity theft, you have the right to seek help.
Reporting the scam is not only beneficial for you, but it also helps protect others. Law enforcement agencies compile reports to build cases against fraud rings and develop public safety initiatives. Every report strengthens the system’s ability to fight back.
Long-Term Strategies to Avoid HMRC Voicemail Scams and Protect Your Identity
Creating a Fraud Prevention Mindset
Avoiding scams like the HMRC voicemail fraud isn’t just about reacting correctly in the moment—it’s also about building long-term habits that make you less vulnerable to deception. Developing a mindset that is skeptical, informed, and proactive can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to any kind of scam.
Start by viewing all unsolicited communications with a degree of caution. Whether it’s a phone call, text, or email, don’t assume legitimacy just because it looks or sounds official. Scammers are highly skilled at mimicking authoritative voices and branding.
Building a Personal Security Plan
One of the most effective ways to protect yourself is to put a personal security plan in place. This includes regularly updating passwords, using two-factor authentication for online accounts, and keeping a close watch on financial statements and credit activity.
Make it a habit to change your passwords every few months. Avoid using the same credentials for multiple platforms, and never use easy-to-guess information such as birthdays or simple patterns. Enable alerts for suspicious activity on your bank and email accounts.
Using Trusted Devices and Networks
Whenever you access sensitive information like tax records, use trusted devices and secure internet connections. Avoid accessing personal accounts on public Wi-Fi, as these networks are often less secure and can be exploited by hackers to intercept data.
If you must use public Wi-Fi, consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your connection. This adds a layer of protection and reduces the likelihood of your data being accessed by someone with malicious intent.
Educating Your Household
Scam awareness should be a family matter. Make sure everyone in your household—especially older adults or teenagers—understands the tactics used in scams and knows how to respond.
Hold regular discussions about the signs of fraudulent messages. Consider creating a household policy that no one responds to any suspicious message until it has been verified through an official source. Empowering everyone in the home creates an additional line of defense.
Staying Alert During Tax Seasons
Scammers are most active during tax seasons because people expect to hear from HMRC. This makes it the perfect time for fraudsters to exploit confusion or urgency.
Plan ahead and be particularly cautious during key periods, such as the Self Assessment filing deadline. Be aware of any legitimate communication you are expecting and double-check all interactions against that timeline.
Keeping a Scam Log
Maintaining a personal scam log may seem excessive, but it can be a valuable tool in tracking and understanding patterns. Whenever you receive a suspicious message, note the date, content, caller ID, and your response.
Over time, this log can help you identify repeat attempts or new scam techniques. It also gives you a clear record to present if you choose to report the incident to a government agency or your service provider.
Reviewing Your Contact Information
Fraudsters often obtain phone numbers and email addresses through data breaches or online sources. Regularly review the information you’ve shared publicly. Remove or restrict access to contact details listed on social media, online directories, or other public platforms.
It’s also helpful to keep your official records up to date. Ensure your address, phone number, and email on government and financial platforms are correct so that legitimate messages are delivered to the right place.
Avoiding Emotional Reactions
Scammers rely heavily on emotional manipulation. They want you to feel afraid, anxious, or panicked. When your emotions are high, your judgment becomes impaired, and you’re more likely to act against your better instincts.
Train yourself to pause when receiving any unexpected message. Take a few minutes to breathe and consider the logic of the request. If someone genuinely needs a response, they will not mind a brief delay while you verify the message.
Understanding the Language of Scammers
Most fraudulent communications follow similar language patterns. They use strong, urgent language such as “immediate action required,” “legal proceedings,” or “final warning.” They may refer to vague or generic offenses, and avoid giving you the option to consult anyone else.
Understanding this language helps you identify scams more quickly. Create a mental checklist of common scam phrases and compare any suspicious message to this list before responding.
Using Caller Protection Tools
There are several apps and services that allow you to screen calls and flag potentially fraudulent numbers. These tools rely on shared databases of scam reports, offering real-time alerts when a known scammer is calling.
Activate call blocking features provided by your phone or carrier. Some services automatically block high-risk calls or divert them to voicemail. Review these settings periodically to make sure they remain active.
Verifying With a Second Opinion
If you’re ever unsure about a message, get a second opinion. Ask a friend, family member, or colleague to listen to the voicemail or read the message. Sometimes an outside perspective can offer clarity or catch something you might have missed.
You can also seek advice from professional communities, online forums, or consumer advocacy groups that specialize in fraud awareness. These platforms can offer reassurance and direction.
Keeping Up With Official Communications
Sign up for alerts from official sources such as HMRC, consumer watchdogs, and government security agencies. These alerts can inform you of the latest scams and what to look out for.
Familiarize yourself with how HMRC communicates. Knowing their usual contact methods and policies makes it easier to spot inconsistencies in fake messages. For example, HMRC typically doesn’t disclose sensitive information via voicemail.
Avoiding Overexposure to Risk
Be mindful of where and how you share your phone number. Every online form, subscription, or service that requires your number increases your exposure. Only provide your contact details when absolutely necessary.
If you begin receiving frequent suspicious calls, consider changing your phone number. Though inconvenient, it may help prevent further harassment if your details have been compromised.
Implementing a Routine Check-In
Make it a habit to review your personal cybersecurity and scam awareness monthly. This check-in could include verifying your account security, reviewing bank statements, updating passwords, and scanning recent communications for anything unusual.
Even a short review session can significantly improve your readiness and keep security top of mind. Add reminders to your calendar so that it becomes part of your routine.
Encouraging Workplace Education
If you run a business or are part of an organization, consider implementing scam awareness training for staff. Many scams are targeted not only at individuals but also at businesses through impersonation of government bodies or senior executives.
Training employees to recognize and report suspicious communications can prevent serious financial and reputational damage. Include real-life examples in training materials and update them as new scam methods emerge.
Advocating for Better Policies
Support initiatives that encourage telecom companies and regulators to take more action against scam calls. Policies that require number authentication or stricter controls over caller ID spoofing can help reduce the frequency of these scams.
You can also write to your local representative, sign petitions, or participate in public discussions about strengthening anti-fraud regulations.
Final Thoughts
Scams that impersonate HMRC through threatening voicemails have become a widespread and increasingly sophisticated tactic. As we’ve explored throughout this series, these messages are designed to instill panic, mimic authority, and coerce individuals into handing over personal or financial information. What makes them especially dangerous is their ability to sound convincing, especially when received during tax season or periods of expected HMRC contact.
We examined how these scams operate, why they work, and who they typically target. We uncovered the psychological triggers used by scammers and the methods they employ to create fear and urgency. Actionable steps to take if you ever receive a suspicious voicemail how to respond, verify authenticity, and report the incident responsibly. We went further by laying out a comprehensive, long-term approach to personal security. From updating passwords to educating your household, the goal is to build daily habits that minimize exposure to risk and empower you to act with confidence.
Together, these strategies form a complete blueprint for protecting yourself not just from this specific scam, but from a wide range of fraudulent threats that continue to evolve in our digital world. The key takeaway is to stay calm, stay informed, and never rush into decisions prompted by fear. A critical mindset, backed by the right tools and knowledge, is your strongest defense.
By remaining vigilant, sharing what you’ve learned, and helping others spot the warning signs early, you become part of a collective effort to combat fraud. And in today’s connected society, that collective awareness is more powerful than any single scam.