PAN Card: Is someone else using your PAN card? Learn how to find out...

In India, the PAN card (Permanent Account Number) is not just an identity card, but also an essential document for financial transactions. From opening a bank account to filing taxes, property registration, and loan processing, the PAN card is required for every financial transaction.

However, as its importance has grown, so too has its misuse. Cybercriminals are stealing PAN card information to open fake bank accounts, obtain fake loans, and use it for tax fraud.

How to know if someone else has your PAN card?
If you suspect someone is using your PAN card improperly, it's easy to detect. Check the loan and credit accounts held in your name. The easiest way is to check your credit score.

These days, you can easily access this information on apps like PhonePe, Google Pay, or Paytm. Simply type "Credit Score" into the app, enter the required information, and within seconds, all records related to your PAN will appear on the screen. If the information appears to be related to an unknown loan or account, it's safe to assume your PAN card has fallen into the wrong hands.

What to do if your PAN card has been misused?

If the check reveals any suspicious information or transactions, immediately report it to your bank and credit bureau (such as CIBIL). Also, visit the Income Tax Department's website to file a complaint and report any PAN misuse.

If the report reveals no discrepancies, rest assured that your PAN card is currently safe. But remember that keeping your PAN card safe isn't enough; it's also important to regularly check it to prevent fraud.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Amar Ujala. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.