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 GST notices to taxpayers. These notices, which use the CGST logo and a fake Document Identification Number (DIN), are being used to dupe taxpayers into paying fines or penalties. 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 officer had threatened to impose a penalty for non-compliance with GST regulations. However, when the user asked for the DIN, the officer was unable to provide it. This raised suspicions, and the user approached the CBIC for clarification.
In its reply, the CBIC stated that it had not issued any such notice or made any such call. The board advised the user to verify the DIN mentioned in the notice on its portal to confirm its authenticity. The CBIC also warned taxpayers to be cautious of such fake notices and calls, which are being used to cheat them out of their money.
The use of fake DINs is a serious concern, as it can lead to taxpayers losing trust in the GST system. The DIN is a unique number assigned to each communication issued by the GST department, and it is used to verify the authenticity of notices and other communications. By using fake DINs, fraudsters are able to create fake notices that appear to be genuine, making it difficult for taxpayers to distinguish between real and fake communications.
To avoid falling prey to such scams, the CBIC has advised taxpayers to verify the DIN mentioned in every communication on its portal. Taxpayers can visit the CBIC website and enter the DIN in the search box to confirm its authenticity. 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 payments.
The CBIC has also advised taxpayers to be cautious of calls or notices that demand immediate payment or threaten to impose penalties. Genuine GST notices and communications are always issued in writing, and they provide taxpayers with a reasonable time to respond or comply. Taxpayers should also be wary of notices or calls that ask for personal or financial information, as these are often used to commit identity theft or financial fraud.
The issue of fake GST notices is not new, and it has been a concern for taxpayers and the government alike. In recent years, there have been several instances of fraudsters sending fake GST notices and demanding payment from taxpayers. The government has taken several steps to address this issue, including the introduction of the DIN system and the creation of a dedicated portal for GST-related communications.
However, despite these efforts, the problem persists, and taxpayers need to be vigilant to avoid falling prey to such scams. The CBIC’s advice to verify the DIN mentioned in every communication is a simple and effective way to avoid fake notices and calls. Taxpayers should also be aware of their rights and obligations under the GST law and should not hesitate to approach the authorities if they receive any suspicious communications.
In conclusion, the CBIC’s warning about fake GST notices is a timely reminder for taxpayers to be cautious and vigilant. By verifying the DIN mentioned in every communication and being aware of their rights and obligations, taxpayers can avoid falling prey to such scams and ensure that they comply with the GST law in a safe and secure manner.
Source: https://www.ndtvprofit.com/amp/nation/cbic-flags-fake-gst-notices-advises-taxpayers-to-verify-din
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