Govt flags fake GST notices, advises taxpayers to verify DIN
In a move to protect taxpayers from fraudulent activities, the Government’s Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has flagged concerns over fake Goods and Services Tax (GST) notices being sent by fraudsters. These fake notices, which use the Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) logo, have been causing confusion and panic among taxpayers. To address this issue, the CBIC has advised taxpayers to verify the Document Identification Number (DIN) mentioned in every communication on its portal.
The CBIC’s warning came in response to a complaint from an individual who received a call from a person claiming to be a GST officer. The caller allegedly informed the taxpayer that they had outstanding GST dues and demanded immediate payment. The taxpayer, however, grew suspicious and reported the incident to the CBIC. In its reply, the CBIC stated that the notice was fake and cautioned taxpayers against such fraudulent activities.
The use of fake DINs has become a common modus operandi for fraudsters to send fake GST notices. These fake notices often appear authentic, complete with the CGST logo and other official details. However, upon closer inspection, they can be identified as fake. The CBIC has, therefore, advised taxpayers to verify the DIN mentioned in every communication on its portal to ensure that the notice is genuine.
The CBIC has also warned taxpayers against responding to such fake notices or making any payments in response to them. Instead, taxpayers are advised to report such incidents to the CBIC immediately. The CBIC has also assured taxpayers that it will take swift action against those found guilty of sending fake GST notices.
The issue of fake GST notices is not new, and it has been a persistent problem since the introduction of GST in 2017. However, the CBIC’s latest warning highlights the need for taxpayers to be vigilant and cautious when receiving communications from purported GST officers. Taxpayers must be aware of the official communication channels used by the CBIC and must verify the authenticity of any notice or communication before responding to it.
To verify the DIN, taxpayers can visit the CBIC’s portal and check the authenticity of the notice. The CBIC has also provided a list of authorized communication channels, including email addresses and phone numbers, which taxpayers can use to verify the authenticity of any communication. Taxpayers can also report any suspicious activity to the CBIC’s dedicated helpline or email address.
The CBIC’s warning is a timely reminder of the need for taxpayers to be aware of their rights and responsibilities under the GST regime. Taxpayers must be cautious when receiving communications from purported GST officers and must verify the authenticity of any notice or communication before responding to it. By doing so, taxpayers can protect themselves from fraudulent activities and ensure that they are in compliance with the GST laws.
In conclusion, the CBIC’s warning against fake GST notices is a welcome move to protect taxpayers from fraudulent activities. Taxpayers must be vigilant and cautious when receiving communications from purported GST officers and must verify the authenticity of any notice or communication before responding to it. By verifying the DIN mentioned in every communication on the CBIC’s portal, taxpayers can ensure that they are dealing with genuine GST notices and are not falling prey to fraudulent activities.
Source: https://www.ndtvprofit.com/amp/nation/cbic-flags-fake-gst-notices-advises-taxpayers-to-verify-din
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