IRS / HMRC Tax-Arrest Threat Call Script
Callers impersonate the IRS, HMRC, or other tax authorities claiming you owe unpaid taxes and face immediate arrest unless you pay right now, typically by gift cards or wire transfer.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Sanitized example messages
Illustrative, sanitized examples. Personal details are replaced with placeholders such as [phone number] and [fake link].
This is a final notice from the IRS. A federal arrest warrant has been issued in your name for tax fraud. You must call [number] immediately to avoid arrest.
This is HMRC calling. Our records show [amount] in unpaid tax. If you do not pay today a bailiff will be sent to your address. Press 1 to speak to a compliance officer.
The IRS has filed a lawsuit against your social security number. You will be taken into custody within the hour unless you settle [amount] by iTunes gift cards. Call now.
This is your final warning from Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs. Failure to respond will result in immediate prosecution. Call [number] to resolve this matter today.
What the scammer wants
To frighten you into paying fake 'tax debts' immediately by gift card, wire, or crypto before you have time to verify the claim with the real tax authority.
Red flags in the message
- Threat of immediate arrest if you do not pay right now
- Demand for payment by gift card, wire, or cryptocurrency
- Caller ID may spoof a real government phone number
- No written notice or case reference mailed in advance
- Aggressive tone designed to prevent you hanging up
A safe response
Hang up. Real tax authorities contact you by official post before any legal action. Call the official agency number published on their website to check your actual account status.
What not to send
- Gift card PIN numbers
- Wire or crypto payments
- Social Security or National Insurance number
What to do if you already replied
- If you paid, contact your bank or the gift card issuer immediately
- Report the call to the IRS (1-800-366-4484) or HMRC (0300 200 3300) and to Action Fraud or the FTC
- Ignore any follow-up calls claiming to 'help you get your money back'
Evidence to preserve
- Screenshot the full message or call details
- Note the sender number, email, or profile
- Save any links (without clicking) and payment details
- Record dates and times