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 GST notices to taxpayers. These fake notices, which use the CGST logo and a fake Document Identification Number (DIN), have been used to deceive taxpayers and extract money from them. In a reply to a user on social media platform X, who complained about receiving a call from a purported GST officer, the CBIC advised taxpayers to verify the DIN mentioned in every communication on its portal.
The CBIC’s warning comes at a time when there has been a significant increase in the number of complaints about fake GST notices and calls from fraudsters posing as GST officers. These fraudsters use various tactics to convince taxpayers that they owe money to the government and must pay a certain amount to avoid penalties. They often use fake DINs and the CGST logo to make their communications appear authentic.
The CBIC has clarified that all genuine communications from the GST department are sent with a valid DIN, which can be verified on the CBIC’s portal. Taxpayers can check the authenticity of a notice or communication by visiting the CBIC website and searching for the DIN mentioned in the communication. If the DIN is not found on the portal, it is likely that the communication is fake.
The CBIC has also advised taxpayers to be cautious when receiving calls or notices from unknown persons claiming to be GST officers. Taxpayers should never share their personal or financial information with such individuals, and should always verify the authenticity of the communication before taking any action.
The use of fake DINs and CGST logos by fraudsters is a serious concern, as it can lead to taxpayers losing money and also undermine the credibility of the GST system. The CBIC has assured taxpayers that it is taking all necessary steps to prevent such frauds and to protect the interests of genuine taxpayers.
In addition to verifying the DIN, taxpayers can also take other steps to protect themselves from fake GST notices and calls. These include:
- Being cautious when receiving unsolicited calls or notices from unknown persons
- Never sharing personal or financial information with unknown individuals
- Verifying the authenticity of communications on the CBIC portal
- Reporting any suspicious communications to the CBIC or local authorities
- Keeping their GST registration and other details up to date to prevent any discrepancies
The CBIC’s warning about fake GST notices and the importance of verifying DINs is a timely reminder to taxpayers to be vigilant and cautious when dealing with communications from the GST department. By taking the necessary precautions and verifying the authenticity of communications, taxpayers can protect themselves from frauds and ensure that they comply with all GST regulations.
In conclusion, the CBIC’s flagging of fake GST notices and advice to taxpayers to verify DINs is an important step in protecting the interests of genuine taxpayers. Taxpayers must be aware of the risks of fake communications and take all necessary steps to verify the authenticity of notices and calls from the GST department. By doing so, they can prevent losses and ensure that they comply with all GST regulations.
Source: https://www.ndtvprofit.com/amp/nation/cbic-flags-fake-gst-notices-advises-taxpayers-to-verify-din
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