Govt flags fake GST notices, advises taxpayers to verify DIN
In a move to protect taxpayers from falling prey to fraudulent activities, the Government’s Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has flagged concerns over fake GST notices being sent by fraudsters. These notices, which use the CGST logo and a fake Document Identification Number (DIN), are being used to deceive taxpayers into paying fines or penalties. The CBIC has advised taxpayers to verify the DIN mentioned in every communication on its portal to avoid falling victim to such scams.
The CBIC’s warning comes after a user complained on social media platform X about receiving a call from a purported GST officer. The user claimed that the officer had asked for payment of a fine, citing a GST notice. However, upon investigation, it was found that the notice was fake and had been sent by fraudsters. This incident highlights the need for taxpayers to be vigilant and cautious when receiving communications from unknown sources, claiming to be from the GST department.
The CBIC has stated that it has been receiving complaints about fake GST notices, which are being sent by fraudsters to deceive taxpayers. These notices are designed to look like genuine GST notices, complete with the CGST logo and a fake DIN. The fraudsters use these notices to demand payment of fines or penalties, and in some cases, even threaten taxpayers with legal action if they do not comply.
To avoid falling victim to such scams, the CBIC has advised taxpayers to verify the DIN mentioned in every communication on its portal. The DIN is a unique number that is assigned to every communication sent by the GST department, and it can be verified on the CBIC’s website. Taxpayers can check the authenticity of a GST notice by visiting the CBIC’s website and searching for the DIN mentioned in the notice. If the DIN is not found on the website, it is likely that the notice is fake.
The CBIC has also warned taxpayers to be cautious when receiving calls or emails from unknown sources, claiming to be from the GST department. Taxpayers should never respond to such communications or make any payments without verifying the authenticity of the notice. Instead, they should contact the GST department directly to confirm the notice and make any necessary payments.
The issue of fake GST notices is not new, and it has been a concern for taxpayers and the GST department for some time. In recent months, there have been several reports of taxpayers receiving fake GST notices, which have resulted in financial losses and harassment. The CBIC’s warning is a timely reminder for taxpayers to be vigilant and cautious when receiving communications from unknown sources.
To protect themselves from falling victim to such scams, taxpayers should take the following precautions:
- Verify the DIN mentioned in every communication on the CBIC’s portal
- Never respond to calls or emails from unknown sources, claiming to be from the GST department
- Contact the GST department directly to confirm the notice and make any necessary payments
- Be cautious when receiving communications that demand payment of fines or penalties
- Keep personal and financial information secure and do not share it with unknown sources
In conclusion, the CBIC’s warning about fake GST notices is a timely reminder for taxpayers to be vigilant and cautious when receiving communications from unknown sources. By verifying the DIN mentioned in every communication on the CBIC’s portal and taking other precautions, taxpayers can protect themselves from falling victim to such scams. It is also important for the GST department to take measures to prevent such scams and to educate taxpayers about the risks of fake GST notices.
Source: https://www.ndtvprofit.com/amp/nation/cbic-flags-fake-gst-notices-advises-taxpayers-to-verify-din
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