The Income Tax Department has issued a warning to taxpayers about the rise in fraudulent emails and messages designed to deceive them into sharing personal information or making payments. These scams often involve phishing attempts where cybercriminals pose as officials from the Income Tax Department, sending fake communications that appear legitimate.
Taxpayers are urged to be cautious and vigilant when receiving unsolicited emails or messages claiming to be from the department. The department advises against clicking on any suspicious links, downloading attachments, or sharing sensitive information like bank account details, PAN, or Aadhaar numbers in response to these communications.
The Income Tax Department has reminded taxpayers that official communications are typically sent through the department’s official website or authorized channels. If there is any doubt about the authenticity of a message, taxpayers are encouraged to verify the information directly through the official Income Tax portal or contact the department’s customer service for assistance.
This warning aims to protect taxpayers from potential financial losses and identity theft, ensuring that they remain safe and secure while managing their tax-related responsibilities.
The Income Tax Department has advised taxpayers to verify their income tax refund status exclusively through official sources to avoid falling victim to fraudulent emails and messages. Taxpayers are encouraged to use the official Income Tax portal or authorized communication channels to check the status of their refunds.
In its warning, the department emphasized the importance of being cautious with unsolicited emails or messages claiming to provide refund information. These fraudulent communications often mimic official correspondence, but they are designed to deceive recipients into revealing personal information or making payments.
To safeguard against these scams, the department recommends that taxpayers:
1. Double-check the Sender: Always verify the sender’s email address or phone number. Official emails from the Income Tax Department will typically come from domains like “@incometax.gov.in.”
2. Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Links: Do not click on any links or download attachments from suspicious emails or messages. These may lead to phishing websites or install malware on your device.
3. Cross-verify Information: If you receive any communication regarding your tax refund, cross-check the information by logging into the official Income Tax portal or contacting the department directly through verified channels.
4. Report Suspicious Activity: If you receive a suspicious email or message, report it to the Income Tax Department’s customer service or through the official portal.
By following these guidelines, taxpayers can protect themselves from potential fraud and ensure their financial information remains secure.
