Received A Tax Scam Call? Here’s How To Identify And Stay Safe | Personal Finance

Taxpayers across the country have reported receiving several calls from individuals pretending to be from the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) tax department.

The tax filing season is currently at its peak with the 15 September deadline approaching fast, and so are the scammers’ new ways to con taxpayers. Scammers are becoming increasingly creative in their methods, which can make targets believe that the calls they receive are from legitimate sources. Taxpayers across the country have reported receiving several calls from individuals pretending to be from the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) tax department and asking to share sensitive data.

Scammers frequently rely on threats of legal consequences or urgent alerts to scam people into sharing their sensitive personal and financial details over the phone. Falling victim to these schemes can result in massive financial loss and the exploitation of personal information. Taxpayers should avoid sharing any sensitive information with anyone over a call.

How These Income Tax Scams Work

These scammers usually approach their targets through WhatsApp messages, calls, Video calls, emails, and text messages. In many cases, scammers pressure victims to disclose bank account details, OTPs, or credit card details under the impression of “verification.”

Important Things To Keep In Mind

One should always keep in mind that the official communications from the Income Tax Department always include a Document Identification Number (DIN). Any message, email, or call lacking a DIN should be tackled with caution. These fraudulent communications are designed to create fear and prompt quick actions from the targets.

All genuine tax notices are uploaded to the official e-filing portal, where taxpayers can access them by logging into their accounts. If you receive a message or call demanding urgent action but find no corresponding notice on the portal, it is most likely a scam.

Steps To Follow If You Are Approached By A Scammer

It is advised that if any taxpayer receives this kind of call or message, they must not panic and check its legitimacy first. One must verify the received messages and emails by logging in to the official portal and checking if they have received any alerts at the portal and processed them accordingly. One must not share any sensitive information over a call, and additionally, share this information with their friends and family to make them aware of the ongoing scams.