Govt flags fake GST notices, advises taxpayers to verify DIN
In a move to protect taxpayers from fraudulent activities, the Government’s Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has flagged concerns over fake Goods and Services Tax (GST) notices being sent by fraudsters. These fake notices, which use the Central GST (CGST) logo, have been found to contain a fake Document Identification Number (DIN), a unique number assigned to every communication issued by the GST department.
The CBIC’s warning comes after an individual complained about receiving a call from a purported GST officer on the microblogging platform X. The complainant had shared a screenshot of the fake notice, which prompted the CBIC to issue a response. In its reply, the CBIC advised taxpayers to verify the DIN mentioned in every communication on its portal to ensure the authenticity of the notice.
The use of fake DINs by fraudsters has raised concerns among taxpayers, as it can lead to confusion and potentially result in financial losses. The CBIC has, therefore, urged taxpayers to be cautious when receiving GST notices and to verify the DIN before taking any action.
How to verify DIN
To verify the DIN, taxpayers can follow these simple steps:
- Visit the CBIC portal at www.cbic.gov.in.
- Click on the “Search DIN” option.
- Enter the DIN mentioned in the notice.
- If the DIN is genuine, the portal will display the details of the communication, including the date of issue and the issuing authority.
If the DIN is found to be fake, taxpayers are advised not to respond to the notice or make any payments. Instead, they should report the incident to the CBIC immediately.
Prevalence of fake GST notices
The prevalence of fake GST notices is a growing concern, with many taxpayers receiving such notices and calls from fraudsters. These fake notices often threaten taxpayers with penalties and fines, and demand immediate payment of GST dues. In some cases, the fraudsters may also ask taxpayers to share their personal and financial details, which can be used for identity theft and other malicious purposes.
The CBIC has, therefore, urged taxpayers to be vigilant when receiving GST notices and to verify the authenticity of the notice before taking any action. Taxpayers can also report any suspicious activity to the CBIC, which will take necessary action to prevent such fraudulent activities.
Measures to prevent fake GST notices
To prevent fake GST notices, the CBIC has taken several measures, including:
- Unique DIN: The CBIC has introduced a unique DIN for every communication issued by the GST department. This helps to verify the authenticity of the notice.
- Digital signatures: The CBIC has also introduced digital signatures for all communications, which ensures the integrity and authenticity of the notice.
- Public awareness: The CBIC has launched a public awareness campaign to educate taxpayers about the risks of fake GST notices and the importance of verifying the DIN.
Conclusion
The CBIC’s warning about fake GST notices is a timely reminder for taxpayers to be cautious when receiving GST notices. By verifying the DIN mentioned in every communication, taxpayers can ensure the authenticity of the notice and prevent financial losses. The CBIC’s efforts to prevent fake GST notices, including the introduction of unique DINs and digital signatures, are commendable. Taxpayers are advised to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the CBIC.
As the GST regime continues to evolve, it is essential for taxpayers to stay informed about the latest developments and to be aware of the risks of fake GST notices. By working together, we can prevent such fraudulent activities and ensure a smooth and efficient GST system.
News Source: https://www.ndtvprofit.com/amp/nation/cbic-flags-fake-gst-notices-advises-taxpayers-to-verify-din
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