Reports of scam HMRC phone calls have fallen by 97% over the last 12 months, latest data from the tax authority shows.

Reports of scammers impersonating HMRC in phone calls peaked at 79,477 in March 2021 and fell to 2,492 in December 2021.

HMRC also saw a 92% drop in phishing in email reports and a 97% drop in scam text reports over the last year.

According to the tax authority, the results are due to its effort and technology in tackling fraud, and the public's knowledge of cyber criminals.
Mike Fell, HMRC's head of cyber security operations, said:

"It's great news that fewer people are receiving and reporting these attempted frauds, but it is still important they continue to report suspicious contact to us.

"We will continue to do everything we can to protect the public from these cynical attempts to impersonate HMRC to steal from people."

He added customers should never let themselves be rushed if they get a call purporting to be from HMRC:

"Our advice is - never let yourself be rushed. If someone contacts you saying they are from HMRC, wanting you to urgently transfer money or give personal information, be on your guard. HMRC will never ring up threatening arrest, only criminals do that."

Check a suspicious HMRC message by contacting us.