Govt flags fake GST notices, advises taxpayers to verify DIN
In a bid to safeguard 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 GST (CGST) logo and a fake Document Identification Number (DIN), have been reported by several taxpayers who have received calls from purported GST officers.
The CBIC has issued a warning to taxpayers, advising them to verify the DIN mentioned in every communication on its portal to avoid falling prey to such scams. This move comes after a taxpayer complained to the CBIC about receiving a call from a person claiming to be a GST officer. The taxpayer had reported that the caller had sent a fake GST notice, which had the CGST logo and a fake DIN.
The CBIC, in its reply to the taxpayer, stated that it had not issued any such notice and that the taxpayer should verify the DIN on its portal to confirm the authenticity of the notice. The CBIC also warned taxpayers to be cautious of such fake notices and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities immediately.
The use of fake DINs by fraudsters is a cause for concern, as it can lead to taxpayers being misled into paying fines or penalties that are not due. The CBIC has, therefore, advised taxpayers to be vigilant and to verify the DIN of every communication they receive from the GST department. Taxpayers can verify the DIN on the CBIC’s portal by following a few simple steps.
Firstly, taxpayers need to visit the CBIC’s portal and click on the “Search DIN” option. They will then be required to enter the DIN mentioned in the notice they have received. If the DIN is genuine, the portal will display the details of the notice, including the date of issue and the issuing authority. If the DIN is fake, the portal will display a message stating that the DIN is not valid.
The CBIC has also advised taxpayers to be cautious of calls from purported GST officers who demand payment of fines or penalties. Taxpayers should not make any payment without verifying the authenticity of the notice and the identity of the caller. They should also report any suspicious activity to the authorities immediately.
The CBIC’s warning comes at a time when there has been a surge in fake GST notices being sent by fraudsters. These notices often use the CGST logo and a fake DIN to give the impression that they are genuine. However, they are often used to extort money from taxpayers or to gain access to their personal and financial information.
To avoid falling prey to such scams, taxpayers need to be vigilant and to verify the authenticity of every communication they receive from the GST department. They should also be cautious of calls from purported GST officers who demand payment of fines or penalties. By taking these precautions, taxpayers can protect themselves from fake GST notices and ensure that they are in compliance with the GST laws.
In conclusion, the CBIC’s warning to taxpayers to verify the DIN mentioned in every communication on its portal is a timely reminder of the need to be vigilant in the face of fake GST notices. Taxpayers should be cautious of fake notices and should verify the authenticity of every communication they receive from the GST department. By doing so, they can protect themselves from fraudulent activities and ensure that they are in compliance with the GST laws.
Source: https://www.ndtvprofit.com/amp/nation/cbic-flags-fake-gst-notices-advises-taxpayers-to-verify-din
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