Fake GST Summons Alert: CBIC Warns Taxpayers, Offers Verification and Reporting Tools
CBIC warns taxpayers of fake GST summons, urging verification through official tools like the 'VERIFY CBIC-DIN' on its website
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), under the Ministry of Finance, has issued an advisory alerting taxpayers about a rise in fraudulent activities involving fake GST (Goods and Services Tax) summons. The agency cautions individuals to remain vigilant against such scams, which aim to deceive taxpayers by mimicking official communications. Fraudulent Summons and How...
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), under the Ministry of Finance, has issued an advisory alerting taxpayers about a rise in fraudulent activities involving fake GST (Goods and Services Tax) summons. The agency cautions individuals to remain vigilant against such scams, which aim to deceive taxpayers by mimicking official communications.
Fraudulent Summons and How They Operate
According to CBIC, some immoral individuals are creating and distributing counterfeit summons that closely resemble genuine ones issued by the Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI) or CBIC officials. These forged documents bear the department's official logo and include fake Document Identification Numbers (DINs), making them appear authentic to unsuspecting recipients.
The fraudulent summons are often sent to taxpayers who may or may not be under investigation for GST violations. This tactic creates confusion and fear, potentially pressuring taxpayers into compliance with fraudulent demands.
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Verification Process: CBIC’s Digital Solution
To counteract these activities, CBIC has urged taxpayers to verify the authenticity of any communication, including summons, letters, and notices, through the official "VERIFY CBIC-DIN" tool. The verification process can be completed easily by visiting the CBIC’s website at https://esanchar.cbic.gov.in/DIN/DINSearch.
The “VERIFY CBIC-DIN” tool allows users to confirm whether the DIN on a communication matches records in the CBIC database. A genuine DIN ensures that the communication is officially issued and traceable.
What to Do If You Identify a Fake Summons
Taxpayers who discover fake summons or communications after verification are strongly encouraged to report the matter immediately to the concerned DGGI or CGST (Central Goods and Services Tax) formations. Timely reporting will enable the authorities to investigate and take legal action against the perpetrators.
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CBIC explains its ongoing commitment to ensuring transparency and authenticity in all official communications. The issuance of DINs for all communications has been mandatory since November 5, 2019, as outlined in Circular No. 122/41/2019-GST. This measure was introduced to safeguard taxpayers from fraud and ensure traceability of communications.
Important Advisory to Taxpayers
- Verify any suspicious communication using the “VERIFY CBIC-DIN” tool.
- Do not respond to or comply with fraudulent demands.
- Report any suspected fake summons or notices to the concerned authorities promptly.
For more information or to read the official press release, visit the CBIC’s website or the Press Information Bureau’s portal. Taxpayers are encouraged to share this advisory widely to raise awareness and prevent further incidents of fraud.
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