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 Central GST (CGST) logo, often contain a fake Document Identification Number (DIN) in an attempt to deceive taxpayers into taking action. In a recent reply to a user who complained about receiving a call from a purported GST officer on the 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 issue of fake GST notices has been a growing concern for taxpayers in recent times. With the increasing use of digital communication, fraudsters have found new ways to deceive taxpayers by sending fake notices and demands. These notices often appear to be genuine, with the CGST logo and other official markings, making it difficult for taxpayers to distinguish between real and fake communications.
The CBIC has warned taxpayers to be cautious when receiving any communication that appears to be from the GST department. The board has advised taxpayers to verify the DIN mentioned in every communication on its portal to ensure that the notice or demand is genuine. The DIN is a unique identification number assigned to each communication issued by the GST department, and it can be verified on the CBIC’s website.
To verify the DIN, taxpayers can follow these simple steps:
- Log on to the CBIC’s website (www.cbic.gov.in) or the GST portal (www.gst.gov.in).
- Click on the “Search DIN” tab.
- Enter the DIN mentioned in the communication.
- If the DIN is genuine, the details of the communication will be displayed on the screen.
If the DIN is not found on the CBIC’s website or the GST portal, it is likely that the communication is fake, and taxpayers should not respond to it or take any action based on it. The CBIC has also advised taxpayers to be cautious when receiving calls or emails from unknown persons claiming to be GST officers. Taxpayers should never share their personal or financial information with unknown persons or respond to demands for payment without verifying the authenticity of the communication.
The CBIC has also warned taxpayers against making any payments in response to fake notices or demands. Taxpayers should only make payments through authorized channels, such as the GST portal or authorized banks. Any payment made in response to a fake notice or demand may result in financial loss, and taxpayers may also be liable for penalties and fines.
The issue of fake GST notices highlights the need for taxpayers to be vigilant and cautious when receiving communications that appear to be from the GST department. Taxpayers should always verify the authenticity of the communication before taking any action, and they should never share their personal or financial information with unknown persons.
In addition to verifying the DIN, taxpayers can also take other precautions to avoid falling prey to fake GST notices. These include:
- Being cautious when receiving unsolicited calls or emails from unknown persons claiming to be GST officers.
- Never sharing personal or financial information with unknown persons.
- Not responding to demands for payment without verifying the authenticity of the communication.
- Making payments only through authorized channels, such as the GST portal or authorized banks.
- Keeping their GST registration and other details up to date to avoid any discrepancies.
In conclusion, the CBIC’s warning about fake GST notices is a timely reminder for taxpayers to be vigilant and cautious when receiving communications that appear to be from the GST department. By verifying the DIN and taking other precautions, taxpayers can avoid falling prey to fake notices and demands. It is essential for taxpayers to be aware of the risks associated with fake GST notices and to take steps to protect themselves from financial loss and penalties.
News Source: https://www.ndtvprofit.com/amp/nation/cbic-flags-fake-gst-notices-advises-taxpayers-to-verify-din
About the Author
