Govt flags fake GST notices, advises taxpayers to verify DIN
The Government’s Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has flagged concerns over fraudsters sending fake Goods and Services Tax (GST) notices to taxpayers. These fake notices are designed to appear legitimate, using the Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) logo and a fake Document Identification Number (DIN). The CBIC has warned taxpayers to be vigilant and verify the DIN mentioned in every communication on its portal to avoid falling prey to such scams.
The warning comes after a taxpayer complained about receiving a call from a purported GST officer, who claimed that the taxpayer had outstanding GST dues. The taxpayer was asked to pay the dues immediately, or face penalties and legal action. However, upon verifying the details, it was found that the notice was fake, and the taxpayer had no outstanding GST dues.
The CBIC has advised taxpayers to be cautious of such fake notices and to verify the authenticity of every communication they receive. The CBIC has stated that all genuine communications from the GST department will have a valid DIN, which can be verified on the CBIC portal. Taxpayers can check the DIN by visiting the CBIC website and searching for the DIN in the search bar. If the DIN is not found on the portal, it is likely to be fake.
The use of fake DINs by fraudsters is a new tactic, and taxpayers need to be aware of this to avoid falling victim to such scams. The CBIC has assured taxpayers that it will take all necessary measures to prevent such fake notices and to protect the interests of genuine taxpayers.
The CBIC has also advised taxpayers to be cautious of unsolicited calls or emails that ask for personal or financial information. Taxpayers should never provide sensitive information, such as their GST registration number, password, or bank account details, to anyone over the phone or via email. If a taxpayer receives a call or email that appears to be from the GST department, they should immediately verify the authenticity of the communication by checking the DIN on the CBIC portal.
The CBIC has also warned taxpayers against making any payments to fraudsters, as this can lead to financial loss and compromise the security of their personal and financial information. Taxpayers who have already made payments to fraudsters are advised to report the incident to the local police and the CBIC immediately.
The issue of fake GST notices is a serious concern, and the CBIC is taking all necessary measures to address this issue. The CBIC has set up a dedicated helpline and email address for taxpayers to report any suspicious communications or activities. Taxpayers can contact the CBIC helpline at [insert helpline number] or email at [insert email address] to report any fake notices or suspicious activities.
In addition to verifying the DIN, taxpayers can also take other precautions to protect themselves from fake GST notices. These include:
- Being cautious of unsolicited calls or emails that ask for personal or financial information
- Never providing sensitive information, such as their GST registration number, password, or bank account details, to anyone over the phone or via email
- Verifying the authenticity of every communication from the GST department by checking the DIN on the CBIC portal
- Keeping their GST registration number, password, and other sensitive information confidential
- Being aware of the GST laws and procedures to avoid being misled by fraudsters
The CBIC has assured taxpayers that it is committed to protecting their interests and preventing fake GST notices. The CBIC will continue to take all necessary measures to prevent such scams and to ensure that taxpayers can comply with the GST laws without any hassle.
In conclusion, the CBIC has flagged concerns over fake GST notices, and taxpayers need to be vigilant to avoid falling prey to such scams. By verifying the DIN mentioned in every communication on the CBIC portal, taxpayers can ensure that they are dealing with genuine communications from the GST department. Taxpayers should also be cautious of unsolicited calls or emails that ask for personal or financial information and never provide sensitive information to anyone over the phone or via email.
Source: https://www.ndtvprofit.com/amp/nation/cbic-flags-fake-gst-notices-advises-taxpayers-to-verify-din
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