Is a voicemail from the IRS or HMRC threatening immediate arrest for unpaid tax real?
No. Neither the IRS, HMRC, nor any other tax authority leaves threatening arrest voicemails. This is a widely known impersonation scam.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Explanation
Government impersonation robocall fraud is one of the highest-volume scam formats globally. Victims receive automated or live calls claiming to be from the IRS (US), HMRC (UK), ATO (Australia), or equivalent agencies, warning that a warrant has been issued and police will arrive unless they pay immediately. The calls use official-sounding language, badge numbers, and sometimes spoofed caller IDs. Real tax authorities communicate by official post before any enforcement action, allow time to respond, and have formal appeals processes. They do not demand immediate payment by wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or gift card over the phone. If you receive such a voicemail, do not call back the number provided.
Common red flags
- Automated or live voicemail threatening arrest for unpaid tax
- Instruction to call back a specific number immediately
- Demand for payment by gift card, cryptocurrency, or wire transfer
- Threat that police will arrive within hours
- Caller asks you not to discuss the matter with a lawyer or family member
What to do now
- Do not call back the number in the voicemail
- If concerned about a genuine tax issue, contact the authority via their official website
- Report the voicemail to your national fraud service
- Block the number on your phone
Frequently asked questions
What if I already called back and gave information?
Contact your bank immediately if financial information was shared. Report to your national fraud service and monitor your accounts closely.