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 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. The CBIC has advised taxpayers to verify the DIN mentioned in every communication on its portal to avoid falling prey to such scams.
In a recent reply to a user on a social media platform, the CBIC addressed a complaint about a call received from a purported GST officer. The user had reported receiving a call from someone claiming to be a GST officer, who demanded immediate action on a GST notice. However, upon investigation, it was found that the notice was fake and contained a bogus DIN.
The CBIC has warned taxpayers to be vigilant and not respond to any communication that does not contain a genuine DIN. 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 portal. Taxpayers can check the authenticity of a notice by visiting the CBIC website and searching for the DIN mentioned in the notice.
This is not the first time that the CBIC has flagged concerns over fake GST notices. In recent months, there have been several instances of taxpayers receiving fake notices and demands from fraudsters posing as GST officers. These scams often involve demands for payment of penalties or fines, and can cause significant financial losses to taxpayers who fall prey to them.
The CBIC has advised taxpayers to be cautious when receiving any communication that claims to be from the GST department. Taxpayers should always verify the DIN mentioned in the notice and check the CBIC website to confirm the authenticity of the communication. They should also be wary of any demands for payment or action that seem suspicious or unusual.
To avoid falling prey to such scams, taxpayers should take the following precautions:
- Verify the DIN: Always check the DIN mentioned in the notice on the CBIC website to confirm its authenticity.
- Check the CBIC website: Visit the CBIC website to verify the notice and check if it is genuine.
- Be cautious of demands: Be wary of any demands for payment or action that seem suspicious or unusual.
- Do not respond to fake notices: Do not respond to any notice that does not contain a genuine DIN or seems suspicious.
- Report suspicious activity: Report any suspicious activity or fake notices to the CBIC or local authorities.
The CBIC has also advised taxpayers to be aware of the following red flags that may indicate a fake GST notice:
- Spelling and grammar mistakes: Fake notices often contain spelling and grammar mistakes.
- Lack of DIN: Fake notices may not contain a DIN or may contain a bogus DIN.
- Suspicious demands: Demands for payment or action that seem suspicious or unusual.
- Threats and intimidation: Fake notices may contain threats or intimidation to force taxpayers into taking action.
In conclusion, the CBIC’s warning about fake GST notices is a timely reminder for taxpayers to be vigilant and cautious when receiving any communication that claims to be from the GST department. By verifying the DIN and checking the CBIC website, taxpayers can avoid falling prey to such scams and protect themselves from financial losses. It is essential for taxpayers to be aware of the red flags that may indicate a fake GST notice and to report any suspicious activity to the CBIC or local authorities.
Source: https://www.ndtvprofit.com/amp/nation/cbic-flags-fake-gst-notices-advises-taxpayers-to-verify-din
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