Income Tax Department warns against fake emails, SMS scams
What's the story
The Income Tax Department has issued a public advisory warning taxpayers, especially senior citizens, about the rise of fraudulent emails, SMS messages, and websites. These scams impersonate the department in order to steal personal and financial information. The advisory was shared on X by the official handle of the Income Tax department under Government of India.
Scam tactics
Scammers using fake sender IDs and misleading links
The department has warned that scammers are increasingly using fake sender IDs, misleading links, and look-alike websites to trick people into revealing sensitive information like PAN numbers, passwords, and one-time passwords (OTPs). To avoid falling victim to these scams, taxpayers are advised to verify the authenticity of all communications claiming to be from tax authorities.
Safety measures
Access tax services only through official portal
The department has reiterated that taxpayers should access tax-related services only through the official portal, https://www.incometax.gov.in. Any other website resembling this domain, like those with "efiling" or similar spellings, should be treated as suspicious. The advisory further emphasizes that the department never asks for OTPs, passwords, or confidential personal information via email, SMS, or phone calls.
Precautionary steps
Check sender's email address and website domain
Taxpayers are advised to always check the sender's email address and website domain carefully before clicking on any link. To strengthen public awareness, the department has encouraged citizens to report suspicious activity. Phishing emails can be forwarded to webmanager@incometax.gov.in with a copy marked to incident@cert-in.org.in, the national cyber incident response agency. For assistance, taxpayers can also contact the official helpdesk at 1800 103 0025 or 080 46122000.
Awareness initiative
Campaign aims to promote cyber hygiene among citizens
This campaign is part of the government's broader effort to promote cyber hygiene and protect citizens from digital fraud, particularly vulnerable groups such as senior citizens. The department has urged people to share this message widely in order to safeguard their family members and loved ones. "Think before you click, stay tax smart, stay safe," the advisory concludes, stressing that awareness and caution are the best defenses against online tax scams.