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, which use the CGST logo and a fake Document Identification Number (DIN), have been used by scammers to dupe taxpayers into paying fines or penalties. In a recent reply to a user on social media platform X, the CBIC 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 user complained about receiving a call from a purported GST officer, who claimed that the user had outstanding GST dues and demanded payment. The user, who was suspicious of the call, reached out to the CBIC on social media to verify the authenticity of the claim. The CBIC, in its response, stated that the notice was fake and advised the user to verify the DIN on its portal.
The use of fake DINs by scammers has become a major concern for the CBIC, as it can lead to taxpayers losing money to fraudsters. The DIN is a unique number assigned to each communication sent by the CBIC to taxpayers, and it can be verified on the CBIC’s portal. The CBIC has advised taxpayers to verify the DIN mentioned in every communication, including emails, letters, and notices, to ensure that they are genuine.
The CBIC has also warned taxpayers to be cautious of fake calls and messages from purported GST officers, who may demand payment or threaten to impose penalties. The CBIC has stated that it never demands payment or sends notices through phone calls or messages, and that all communications are sent through its portal or by post.
To avoid falling prey to such scams, taxpayers can take a few simple steps. Firstly, they should verify the DIN mentioned in every communication on the CBIC’s portal. Secondly, they should never respond to fake calls or messages from purported GST officers, and instead, report such incidents to the CBIC. Thirdly, they should always check the CBIC’s website for genuine notices and updates, rather than relying on information received through phone calls or messages.
The CBIC has also taken steps to prevent such scams, including setting up a dedicated helpline for taxpayers to report fake notices and calls. The CBIC has also increased awareness about the use of fake DINs and the importance of verifying communications on its portal.
In addition, the CBIC has advised taxpayers to be cautious of fake websites and portals that may mimic the CBIC’s website. These fake websites may ask taxpayers to enter their login credentials or pay fines or penalties, and can lead to identity theft and financial loss. The CBIC has stated that its official website is the only genuine portal for taxpayers to access their GST accounts and make payments.
The issue of fake GST notices is not new, and the CBIC has been warning taxpayers about such scams for several years. However, the use of fake DINs has made it more difficult for taxpayers to distinguish between genuine and fake notices. The CBIC’s warning is therefore a timely reminder for taxpayers to be vigilant and verify all communications before responding or making payments.
In conclusion, the CBIC’s warning about fake GST notices and the use of fake DINs is a reminder for taxpayers to be cautious and vigilant. By verifying the DIN mentioned in every communication on the CBIC’s portal, taxpayers can avoid falling prey to such scams and ensure that they are complying with genuine GST notices. The CBIC’s efforts to prevent such scams and increase awareness about the use of fake DINs are commendable, and taxpayers should take advantage of the resources available to them to stay safe from such scams.
News source: https://www.ndtvprofit.com/amp/nation/cbic-flags-fake-gst-notices-advises-taxpayers-to-verify-din
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