The Income Tax Department Alerts People to Growing ITR Refund Fraud.

New Delhi-Scammers have started to operate now that the deadline for filing income tax returns, or ITRs, has passed which was on 31st July 2024. Reports indicate that fraudulent claims are being made in the form of income tax refunds, therefore those who have submitted ITRs should exercise caution. The Income Tax Department has sent out a warning to taxpayers, advising them to remain alert against fraudulent letters. It’s crucial for taxpayers to remain alert, especially after the filing deadline has passed.Scammers often exploit such situations to deceive people through fraudulent messages promising income tax refunds or other false claims. Following the Income Tax Department’s warning is essential to avoid falling victim to these scams. It’s wise to verify the authenticity of any communication related to tax refunds and to avoid sharing personal or financial information without confirming the legitimacy of the source.There have been over 7 crore ITR filings nationwide, according to the reports. Income tax refunds are being used as a target by scammers in their modern fraud schemes. Consumers are receiving phoney messages about their income tax refunds from cybercriminals, who then take their money.The Income Tax Department’s cautions are essential for protecting taxpayers from fraud. It’s crucial to avoid interacting with or clicking on any sites that seem to promise income tax refunds because scammers frequently use these to obtain personal information. Furthermore, avoid sharing critical information via the phone or through untrusted channels, including OTPs and PAN card details. Being cautious and verifying the authenticity of any tax-related correspondence can help prevent financial fraud and identity theft.Scammers often pose as officials, such as those from the IT Department, to pressure individuals into making immediate payments. They may claim that urgent payment is required to avoid penalties or legal issues. The IT Department has emphasized that they do not use phone calls to demand immediate payments. If you receive such a call, it’s important to verify the authenticity of the request through official channels and report the suspicious call to the authorities.

 CA Manish Kumar Sinha