New ePAN Policy: The QR Code Revolution or Just Another Scam Trap?

With the growing digitization, the government is looking for better and more secure ways to protect our data.

To execute the same, the Income Tax Department has introduced a new type of ePAN with a built-in QR code system to enhance security and simplify the process of verifying and using PAN cards.

Although the update of PAN cards is not mandatory unawareness or incomplete information becomes an opportunity for scammers to run their evil tactics.

Scammers are reaching out to people through emails and messages impersonating themselves from the Income Tax department and looting people by getting access to their financial information.

Let’s dive into the details of how the scam is being operated and tips to protect yourself and your family members from the same.

Understanding the New ePAN Policy

The new ePAN policy involves a significant upgrade to the existing PAN card system by incorporating a QR code.

This new update makes it easier for people to authenticate PAN cards. Now the process of updating the PAN card has attracted scammers who are preying on the confusion and urgency surrounding the ePAN upgrade.

Scammers are reaching out to people through different communication platforms impersonating themselves as a part of the Income Tax Department.

The message or email contains a link redirecting a person to a fake website that looks like an authentic official government portal at first glance.

Once on this site, individuals are prompted to enter personal details like Aadhaar numbers, bank information, and sometimes even OTPs, allowing the scammers to steal their money or identity.

Red Flags: How to Identify Fraudulent Emails

Here are a few key indicators that an email might be a phishing attempt:

1. Suspicious Sender Address:
   • Always check the sender’s email address. Official government emails usually come from a trusted domain (e.g., @incometaxindia.gov.in). Be wary of addresses that are slightly altered or contain odd characters.
2. Urgent or Threatening Language:
   • Scammers often create a sense of urgency, using phrases like “Immediate Action Required” or “Failure to Update Will Result in Penalty.” Genuine emails from the government are typically polite and informative, not demanding immediate action.
3. Suspicious Links:
   • Hover over any links in the email to check the actual URL. Scammers often use URLs that look similar to legitimate websites but may have slight differences (e.g., missing letters or extra symbols).
4. Requests for Sensitive Information:
   • Government agencies will never ask you to share personal details like your Aadhaar number, bank details, or OTPs via email. If an email asks for this information, it’s likely a scam.
5. Typos and Grammatical Errors:
   • Official communications are typically well-written. If you notice spelling mistakes, poor grammar, or strange formatting, it could be a sign of a scam.

How to Protect Yourself and Your Capital?

Here are some simple steps to keep your personal information secure:

1. Do Not Click on Suspicious Links:
   • If you receive an email with a link, do not click on it. Instead, manually type the official website address into your browser to access the legitimate portal.
2. Verify the Sender:
   • Always verify the authenticity of the sender’s email address. If you’re unsure, contact the Income Tax Department directly through their official customer service channels.
3. Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):
   • Enable 2FA on your online accounts, especially on those related to finance. This adds an extra layer of protection in case your details are compromised.
4. Look for Secure Website Indicators:
   • When entering sensitive information online, ensure that the website is secure. Look for “HTTPS” in the URL and a padlock icon in the address bar.
5. Regularly Monitor Your Bank and Credit Card Statements:
   • Keep a close eye on your bank accounts and credit card statements. Any unauthorized transactions should be reported immediately.
6. Report Suspicious Emails:
   • If you receive a suspicious email claiming to be from the Income Tax Department, forward it to the official email address of the Income Tax Department for verification. You can also report such emails to your email service provider.
7. Take Immediate Action:
   • In case you have been trapped in any such scam, act swiftly and file a complaint in cyber crime. This will increase the chance of recovering your money.
     

Conclusion

No doubt, the new ePAN policy is going to add more security and convenience but at the same time, scammers like always have found an opportunity to loot people with that too.

Reaching out the people with less understanding of digital systems and technology, these scammers are tricking people to avail sensitive information and vanishing with the hard-earned money of people.

It is therefore important for you to be more alert and protect yourself and your family members by creating awareness about this running scam.

Don’t let scammers take advantage of the digital age and protect your identity and your capital!

In case you have been scammed in any such fraud, fill in your details below and our team will assist you in reporting a scam!