Tax refund scam
Quick answer
A scammer impersonates the tax office, promising a refund or threatening a penalty to collect your details or payment.
- Log in to your official tax account directly to check.
What it is
A scammer impersonates the tax office, promising a refund or threatening a penalty to collect your details or payment.
How it works
A message offers a refund or claims tax is due, with a link to a fake government page that collects bank or card details.
Red flags to watch for
- Unexpected refund or tax demand
- A link to claim or pay
- Requests for bank details to 'process' a refund
Example
A message says you are owed a tax refund and asks for bank details through a link. This is risky because tax offices do not request details this way.
What not to do
- Do not click the link
- Do not share bank or card details
The safe next step
Log in to your official tax account directly to check.
Often seen on: SMS, Email, Phone call.
Commonly targets: Taxpayers.
How to verify safely
- Do not use links, phone numbers, QR codes, or email addresses from the suspicious message.
- Open the official app or website yourself - type the address manually.
- Call a contact you have saved, or the number printed on your bank card.
- If you are threatened or in immediate danger, contact local emergency services or police.
How to report it
Report to your national tax authority and fraud body.
Find official links for your country in the scam reporting directory.
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Frequently asked questions
What is a tax refund scam?
A scammer impersonates the tax office, promising a refund or threatening a penalty to collect your details or payment.
How can I avoid a tax refund scam?
Log in to your official tax account directly to check.
What should I do if I have already been affected?
Contact your bank or the relevant provider through official channels, change any exposed passwords from a trusted device, and save evidence. See our recovery guides, and be wary of recovery scams that promise to get your money back for a fee.