Income Tax Refund Scam: IT dept issues alert to Tax Payers

April 18, 2025

New Delhi, April 18: The Income Tax Department has issued a warning to taxpayers about fraudulent messages claiming tax refunds. These messages often contain links directing recipients to Phishing websites designed to steal personal and financial information.

Refund ka trap, aapke saare fund chutkiyon mein saaf kar dega!

Income Tax department kabhi aapse account number ka confirmation ya koi personal information SMS par nahi maangega.

In case of occurrence of any such fraud, call on National Cybercrime Helpline Number 1930 or… pic.twitter.com/MNQIayMz9C

— State Bank of India (@TheOfficialSBI) November 26, 2024

⇒Key Points to Remember:

♦Official Communication: The Income Tax Department does not send unsolicited messages or emails regarding tax refunds. Refund details are communicated through official Income Tax Return acknowledgement attachments.

♦Sensitive Information: The department will never ask for sensitive information such as PIN numbers, passwords, or credit card details via email or text message.

♦Fraud Attempts: Fraudulent messages may claim that a refund is due and prompt recipients to click on links to verify account details. These links often lead to fake websites designed to steal personal information.

⇒What to Do:

♦Do Not Respond:  Avoid replying to suspicious messages or clicking on any links provided.

♦Verify Information: Check the authenticity of any communication by visiting the official Income Tax Department website or contacting then directly.

♦Report Suspicious Activity: If you receive a fraudulent message, call on National Cybercrime Helpline Number 1930 or visit https://cybercrime.gov.in

♦Stay Vigilant: Always be cautious when receiving unsolicites messages or emails, especially those requesting personal or financial information.