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 often use the Central GST (CGST) logo and a fake Document Identification Number (DIN) to appear legitimate. The CBIC has advised taxpayers to verify the DIN mentioned in every communication on its portal to avoid falling prey to such scams.
The warning comes after a taxpayer complained about receiving a call from a purported GST officer on social media platform X. The CBIC responded to the complaint, stating that it had not issued any such notice and advised the taxpayer to verify the authenticity of the notice by checking the DIN on its portal.
The use of fake DINs and CGST logos by fraudsters has become a growing concern, with many taxpayers receiving fake notices and demands for payment. These fake notices often threaten taxpayers with penalties and legal action if they do not comply with the demands made in the notice. The CBIC has warned taxpayers that such notices are likely to be fake and should not be taken seriously.
To avoid falling prey to such scams, the CBIC has advised taxpayers to verify the DIN mentioned in every communication on its portal. The DIN is a unique number assigned to each notice or communication issued by the CBIC, and it can be used to verify the authenticity of the notice. Taxpayers can check the DIN on the CBIC portal by following a few simple steps.
First, taxpayers need to visit the CBIC portal and click on the “Search DIN” option. They can then enter the DIN mentioned in the notice and search for it. If the DIN is genuine, the portal will display the details of the notice, including the date of issue and the officer who issued it. If the DIN is not found on the portal, it is likely to be fake, and taxpayers should not respond to the notice or make any payment.
The CBIC has also advised taxpayers to be cautious when receiving calls or emails from purported GST officers. Taxpayers should not respond to such calls or emails or provide any personal or financial information. Instead, they should verify the authenticity of the call or email by contacting the CBIC directly.
The CBIC has taken several steps to prevent such scams and to protect taxpayers from fake notices and demands. It has issued guidelines for taxpayers on how to verify the authenticity of notices and communications, and it has also set up a dedicated helpline for taxpayers to report any suspicious activity.
In addition to verifying the DIN, taxpayers can also take several other steps to protect themselves from fake GST notices. They should be cautious when receiving any communication that demands payment or threatens penalties, and they should not respond to such communications without verifying their authenticity. Taxpayers should also keep their personal and financial information secure and not share it with anyone.
The CBIC has warned that it will take strict action against anyone found to be involved in sending fake GST notices or making fake demands. Taxpayers who receive fake notices or demands should report them to the CBIC immediately, and they should not make any payment or respond to such notices.
In conclusion, the CBIC has flagged concerns over fake GST notices and advised taxpayers to verify the DIN mentioned in every communication on its portal. Taxpayers should be cautious when receiving any communication that demands payment or threatens penalties, and they should verify the authenticity of such communications before responding. By taking these steps, taxpayers can protect themselves from fake GST notices and avoid falling prey to scams.
Source: https://www.ndtvprofit.com/amp/nation/cbic-flags-fake-gst-notices-advises-taxpayers-to-verify-din
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