Tax Scams: How to Spot and Avoid Fraud During Tax Season

Tax scams are fraudulent schemes designed to steal personal information, financial data, or tax refunds by impersonating tax authorities such as HMRC in the UK or the IRS in the US. These scams often surface during tax season through fake emails, phone calls, or phishing websites claiming urgent tax issues or refund opportunities. Victims are tricked into sharing sensitive data or making fraudulent payments. Recognizing warning signs—like threats of arrest, demands for immediate payment, or unsolicited refund offers—is key to staying safe. To protect against tax scams, verify all communications, use official portals, and report suspicious activity to relevant authorities.