Scots Cautioned: 'Legit-Looking' New Year Scam Could Cost Thousands

Understanding the New Year Scam

As we step into 2026, a new wave of scams is emerging that targets UK residents. These fraudulent activities are particularly concerning as they often mimic official communications from trusted institutions like the HMRC. Scammers are exploiting the financial anxieties that many people face at the start of the year, especially after the festive season.

The scam typically involves messages that appear to be from HMRC, urging recipients to claim an "outstanding tax refund." These messages can be extremely convincing, making it crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and cautious.

How the Scam Works

Fraudsters use various methods to deceive their victims. One common approach is sending text messages or emails that create a sense of urgency or curiosity. For instance, a message might suggest that you have missed out on a tax rebate or refund, prompting you to click on a link to claim it. However, these links often lead to malicious websites designed to steal personal and financial information.

Caroline Butler, a well-known expert in this field, highlighted the prevalence of such scams during her recent TikTok video. She emphasized that these schemes tend to resurface every January, leading many to lose significant amounts of money. According to Caroline, scammers take advantage of the fact that people are more aware of tax-related matters around this time.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

One of the most critical red flags is the presence of links in text messages from HMRC. It's essential to remember that the HMRC will never send links via text. If you receive such a message, it's likely a scam. Additionally, any communication that pressures you to act quickly or threatens you with consequences should raise immediate suspicion.

Another warning sign is unexpected or suspicious messages. If you receive a letter or email that seems out of the ordinary, it's best to verify its authenticity through official channels. For example, if you receive a letter about overpayment or a receipt, you should check your online tax account to confirm its legitimacy.

What to Do If You Suspect a Scam

If you receive a message that appears to be from HMRC and you're unsure of its authenticity, it's crucial to avoid clicking on any links. Instead, contact HMRC directly through their official website or customer service lines. This ensures that you are communicating with the real HMRC and not a scammer.

Moreover, if you do end up clicking on a suspicious link, it's important to report the incident immediately. This helps authorities track down scammers and prevent others from falling victim to similar schemes.

Real-Life Experiences

Many individuals have shared their experiences with these scams on social media. One person mentioned receiving texts from unknown mobile numbers, which they found suspicious. They advised others to report and block such numbers. Another individual shared how they received a letter about overpayment and even framed a check they received, highlighting the importance of verifying all communications.

HMRC's Role in Combating Scams

The HMRC has been actively working to combat these fraudulent activities. They have reported a significant number of scam referrals in the past year, with over 170,000 reports submitted between July 31, 2025. While there has been a 12% reduction compared to the previous year, the number of reports involving fake tax refund claims remains high, with over 47,000 cases reported.

To help consumers stay safe, the HMRC provides guidance on identifying and reporting scams. If you receive a communication claiming to be from HMRC that asks for personal details or offers a tax rebate, it's essential to check the official HMRC scams guidance to verify its authenticity.

Final Thoughts

As we navigate the New Year, it's more important than ever to remain vigilant against scams. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, we can protect ourselves and our finances from falling into the hands of fraudsters. Always verify the authenticity of any communication and never hesitate to reach out to official sources for assistance.