Govt flags fake GST notices, advises taxpayers to verify DIN
In a bid to protect taxpayers from fraudulent activities, the Government’s Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has flagged concerns over fake Goods and Services Tax (GST) notices being sent by fraudsters. These fake notices, which use the CGST logo and a fake Document Identification Number (DIN), are being used to deceive taxpayers and extract money from them. The CBIC has advised taxpayers to verify the DIN mentioned in every communication on its portal to avoid falling prey to such scams.
The CBIC’s warning comes after a taxpayer complained about receiving a call from a purported GST officer, who claimed that the taxpayer had outstanding GST dues and demanded payment. The taxpayer, who wished to remain anonymous, had shared the details of the call on social media platform X, seeking help and clarification from the authorities. In response, the CBIC replied to the user, stating that the notice was fake and that taxpayers should always verify the DIN mentioned in every communication on its portal.
The use of fake DINs by fraudsters is a new tactic being employed to deceive taxpayers. The DIN is a unique number assigned to each communication sent by the GST authorities, and it can be verified on the CBIC’s portal. By using a fake DIN, fraudsters are attempting to make their notices appear legitimate, thereby gaining the trust of taxpayers. However, the CBIC has cautioned taxpayers that any notice or communication without a valid DIN should be treated as fake.
The CBIC has also advised taxpayers to be cautious of unsolicited calls or messages from individuals claiming to be GST officers. These individuals may demand payment or threaten taxpayers with penalties and fines, but they are not authorized to do so. The CBIC has stated that taxpayers should always verify the identity of the person calling or messaging them and should never provide any personal or financial information to unknown individuals.
To verify the authenticity of a GST notice, taxpayers can follow these steps:
- Check the DIN: The first step is to check the DIN mentioned in the notice. Taxpayers can visit the CBIC’s portal and enter the DIN to verify its authenticity.
- Verify the GSTIN: Taxpayers should also verify the GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number) mentioned in the notice. The GSTIN should match the one assigned to the taxpayer.
- Check the notice format: Genuine GST notices have a specific format, which includes the CBIC’s logo, the taxpayer’s name and address, and the details of the outstanding dues.
- Contact the GST authorities: If taxpayers are still unsure about the authenticity of the notice, they can contact the GST authorities directly to verify the information.
The CBIC’s warning is a timely reminder to taxpayers to be vigilant and cautious when receiving notices or communications from purported GST officers. With the increasing use of technology and digital communication, fraudsters are finding new ways to deceive taxpayers, and it is essential for taxpayers to be aware of these scams and take necessary precautions to protect themselves.
In conclusion, the CBIC’s advisory to taxpayers to verify the DIN mentioned in every communication on its portal is a crucial step in preventing fraudulent activities. Taxpayers should always be cautious of unsolicited calls or messages from individuals claiming to be GST officers and should never provide any personal or financial information to unknown individuals. By following the steps outlined above, taxpayers can verify the authenticity of GST notices and avoid falling prey to scams.
Source: https://www.ndtvprofit.com/amp/nation/cbic-flags-fake-gst-notices-advises-taxpayers-to-verify-din
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