Govt flags fake GST notices, advises taxpayers to verify DIN
In a recent development, 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 Goods and Services Tax (CGST) logo, have been creating panic among taxpayers, with many receiving calls from purported GST officers demanding immediate attention to the fake notices.
The CBIC’s warning came in response to a complaint from a user on a social media platform, who claimed to have received a call from a person posing as a GST officer. The caller allegedly demanded that the user take immediate action on a GST notice that had been sent to them. However, upon verification, it was discovered that the notice was fake, and the caller was an imposter.
The CBIC has advised taxpayers to be cautious of such fake notices and to verify the Document Identification Number (DIN) mentioned in every communication received from the GST department. The DIN is a unique number assigned to each communication sent by the GST department, and it can be verified on the CBIC’s portal.
According to the CBIC, the fake notices are being sent by fraudsters who are using the CGST logo and fake DIN to make the notices appear genuine. The notices often demand that taxpayers take immediate action, such as paying a fine or providing sensitive information, and may even threaten legal action if the demands are not met.
The CBIC has warned taxpayers that such fake notices are not genuine and should not be responded to. Instead, taxpayers should verify the DIN mentioned in the notice on the CBIC’s portal to confirm whether the notice is genuine or not. If the DIN is not found on the portal, the notice is likely to be fake, and taxpayers should not take any action on it.
This is not the first time that the CBIC has warned taxpayers about fake GST notices. In the past, the department has issued several advisories cautioning taxpayers about the dangers of fake notices and the importance of verifying the authenticity of communications received from the GST department.
The use of fake DINs and CGST logos by fraudsters is a serious concern, as it can lead to taxpayers losing money or sensitive information to scammers. The CBIC has urged taxpayers to be vigilant and to report any suspicious communications to the department immediately.
In addition to verifying the DIN, taxpayers can also take other steps to protect themselves from fake GST notices. These include being cautious of unsolicited calls or emails that demand immediate action, never providing sensitive information to unknown callers or emails, and always verifying the authenticity of communications received from the GST department.
The CBIC’s warning about fake GST notices is a reminder that taxpayers need to be aware of the dangers of scams and phishing attempts. With the increasing use of technology and digital communications, the risk of falling victim to such scams has increased, and taxpayers need to be proactive in protecting themselves.
In conclusion, the CBIC’s advisory to taxpayers to verify the DIN mentioned in every communication received from the GST department is a timely reminder of the importance of being cautious and vigilant when it comes to fake GST notices. Taxpayers should always verify the authenticity of communications received from the GST department and should never take action on fake notices. By being aware of the dangers of fake notices and taking steps to protect themselves, taxpayers can avoid losing money or sensitive information to scammers.
News Source: https://www.ndtvprofit.com/amp/nation/cbic-flags-fake-gst-notices-advises-taxpayers-to-verify-din
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