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 CGST logo and a fake Document Identification Number (DIN), have been used by scammers to deceive taxpayers and extract money from them. The CBIC has advised taxpayers to verify the DIN mentioned in every communication on its portal to avoid falling prey to such scams.
The issue came to light when a user complained about receiving a call from a purported GST officer on the social media platform, X. The user claimed that the caller was asking for money to be deposited in a bank account, citing a pending GST notice. The CBIC replied to the user, stating that the notice was fake and that taxpayers should be cautious of such scams.
The CBIC has warned taxpayers that fake GST notices are being sent by fraudsters, using the CGST logo and a fake DIN. These notices are designed to look like genuine GST notices, but they are actually phishing attempts to extract money from taxpayers. The scammers use various tactics, including phone calls, emails, and messages, to convince taxpayers that they need to deposit money in a bank account to avoid penalties or legal action.
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 communication sent by the CBIC, and it can be verified on the CBIC’s website. Taxpayers can check the DIN by visiting the CBIC’s portal and entering the DIN number in the search box. If the DIN is genuine, the portal will display the details of the communication, including the date and time of issue.
The CBIC has also warned taxpayers that genuine GST notices are always sent through the GST portal, and they do not ask for money to be deposited in a bank account. Taxpayers are advised to be cautious of any communication that asks for money to be deposited in a bank account, and to verify the authenticity of the notice before taking any action.
This is not the first time that the CBIC has flagged concerns over fake GST notices. In the past, the CBIC has issued several advisories warning taxpayers about the dangers of fake GST notices and the importance of verifying the authenticity of communications. However, despite these warnings, many taxpayers continue to fall prey to such scams, resulting in significant financial losses.
The issue of fake GST notices highlights the need for taxpayers to be vigilant and cautious when receiving communications from the CBIC or other government agencies. Taxpayers should always verify the authenticity of notices and communications, and should never deposit money in a bank account without verifying the authenticity of the notice.
To avoid falling prey to fake GST notices, taxpayers should follow these best practices:
- Verify the DIN: Always verify the DIN mentioned in every communication on the CBIC’s portal.
- Check the GST portal: Check the GST portal to see if there are any pending notices or communications.
- Be cautious of phone calls: Be cautious of phone calls or messages that ask for money to be deposited in a bank account.
- Do not deposit money: Never deposit money in a bank account without verifying the authenticity of the notice.
- Contact the CBIC: If you are unsure about the authenticity of a notice, contact the CBIC or your chartered accountant for advice.
In conclusion, the CBIC’s warning about fake GST notices is a timely reminder for taxpayers to be vigilant and cautious when receiving communications from the CBIC or other government agencies. By verifying the DIN and following best practices, taxpayers can avoid falling prey to such scams and ensure that they are in compliance with GST regulations.
News Source: https://www.ndtvprofit.com/amp/nation/cbic-flags-fake-gst-notices-advises-taxpayers-to-verify-din
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