‘Download E-PAN Card’: This is Fake !
Do not click on any suspicious links in emails or SMS claiming to offer an e-PAN download
The PIB Fact Check team has identified a bogus email scam which asks taxpayers to download a "e-PAN Card." The Press Information Bureau’s official fact-checking arm confirmed that such emails are completely fake and advised the public not to respond to them under any circumstances. The PIB fact check has shared the screenshot of the fake emails directing to download e-PAN Card,...
The PIB Fact Check team has identified a bogus email scam which asks taxpayers to download a "e-PAN Card."
The Press Information Bureau’s official fact-checking arm confirmed that such emails are completely fake and advised the public not to respond to them under any circumstances. The PIB fact check has shared the screenshot of the fake emails directing to download e-PAN Card, which is completely fake.
The income tax department never sends such mails. Thus, the citizens are refrained from responding to such mails. Cyber fraudsters are sending emails, messages, and even making calls posing as official tax authorities or government agencies, luring people into sharing sensitive financial details under the pretext of downloading or updating their PAN card.
What You Should Do:
- Do not click on any suspicious links in emails or SMS claiming to offer an e-PAN download.
- Never share personal or banking details with unknown senders.
- Always verify information through official websites like https://www.incometax.gov.in or the official NSDL/UTIITSL portals for PAN-related services.
Citizens are advised to stay vigilant and report such fraudulent attempts to cybercrime.gov.in or the nearest cyber cell.
Income Tax Department’s Advisory on Phishing
If You Receive an Email Claiming to Be from the Income Tax Department:
- Do Not Reply: Never respond to unsolicited emails asking for personal or financial details.
- Do Not Open Attachments: Attachments may contain harmful malware that can infect your computer or steal your data.
- Do Not Click on Any Links: If you accidentally click a link in a suspicious email or on a fake website, do not enter any confidential information like your bank account or credit card details.
- Do Not Copy-Paste Links: Phishing links can appear genuine but redirect you to fake websites designed to steal your information.
- Use Protection: Always use up-to-date antivirus software, anti-spyware, and a firewall. Many phishing emails contain malicious software that can track your online activities without your knowledge. Strong security tools help block these threats and keep your device safe.
- Stay Vigilant: When in doubt, verify directly through the official Income Tax Department website: https://www.incometax.gov.in
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