“Beware of e-PAN Card Email Scams: Don’t Click the Link!”
The Public Information Bureau (PIB) has issued an alert warning citizens about a new type of cyber fraud involving PAN cards. Fraudsters are sending emails that appear to be from the Income Tax Department, asking recipients to apply for or download an e-PAN card. Clicking on these links can compromise your personal and financial information.How the Scam Works1. Fake Email Notification:o Victims receive an email claiming they need to update or download their e-PAN card.o The email may have official-looking logos and formatting.2. Malicious Links:o The email contains a link to a fake website that mimics the Income Tax Department’s portal.o Clicking the link may lead to phishing attacks, stealing personal details like:§ PAN number§ Aadhaar details§ bank account information3. Request for Payment or Verification:o Some emails may ask for payment for e-PAN processing, which is a trick to steal money directly.How to Protect Yourself1. Do Not Click Links:o Never click on links in emails or messages claiming to issue an e-PAN.2. Verify Official Sources:o Visit the Income Tax Department’s official website or use the official e-PAN app to check any PAN-related updates.3. Check Email Sender Carefully:o Official emails from the Income Tax Department come from gov.in domains.o Any other domain is suspicious.4. Enable Two-Factor Authentication:o Protect your email and PAN-linked accounts with 2FA to prevent unauthorized access.5. Report the Fraud:o Forward phishing emails to cybercrime.gov.in or report through the Income Tax Department’s grievance portal.Remember:· e-PAN cards are free if issued by the official government portal.· No official authority will ask for payment or sensitive details via email.· Being cautious can prevent identity theft, financial loss, and misuse of your PAN.ConclusionScammers are increasingly targeting citizens with e-PAN related cyber frauds. Always verify before you click, use official government portals, and report suspicious emails. Awareness is the first step to protecting your financial identity. Disclaimer:The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.