Tax season for FY 2024-25 is in full swing, and so are the scammers. They’re impersonating income tax and RBI officials through calls, emails, texts, and even WhatsApp video calls to steal your data and money. Staying vigilant is your best defense.
How to Spot a Fake Income Tax Call or Message
Scammers use threats and intimidation to pressure you into giving them sensitive information. Keep these points in mind to avoid falling for their tricks:
- Look for the DIN: Official communication from the Income Tax Department always includes a Document Identification Number (DIN). If an email, text, or notice lacks a DIN, it’s a major red flag and likely a scam.
- Check Your Official Portal: Legitimate notices are uploaded to your e-filing portal account. If a message urges immediate action but you can’t find it on your official account, be cautious. Always verify by logging into the official income tax website.
- Verify the Email Address: Authentic emails come from addresses ending in “@incometax.gov.in”. Scammers often use very similar-looking domains, so inspect the sender’s address carefully.
- They Won’t Ask for Personal Info: The Income Tax Department will never ask for your credit card PINs, passwords, OTPs, or bank details over the phone or in an email. Any request for this information is a scam.
- Beware of Pressure Tactics: Official notices generally give you time to respond. If a message creates panic or threatens immediate legal action, it’s a classic scammer tactic.
How to Safely Report an Income Tax Scam
If you suspect you’ve been targeted, take action immediately to protect yourself and help others.
- Report to Cybercrime: File a report on the national cybercrime portal at cybercrime.gov.in or call the helpline at 1930.
- Contact Your Local Police: File a complaint at your local police station, providing all the details and evidence of the scam call or message.
- Email the Income Tax Department: To report fraudulent emails, send the communication to webmanager@incometax.gov.in. Include a copy of your FIR if you have one.
- Notify Your Bank: If you’ve shared any financial details, contact your bank immediately to report the fraud and monitor your accounts closely for suspicious activity.
- Inform Your Telecom Provider: Let your phone company know so they can help block or track the scammer’s number.
Stay Safe and Aware
- Stay Calm: Don’t panic. Take a moment to think before you act.
- Don’t Respond: Never give out personal or financial details over unverified calls or messages.
- Verify, Verify, Verify: Always cross-reference any communication by checking your official income tax portal.
- Spread the Word: Share this information with friends and family to help them stay safe from these scams.