You could fall victim to a scam in the name of ITR filing: One click could empty your bank account! How to protect yourself..

The time of ITR filing is crucial for every taxpayer. People fill out their income, investment, and tax details online. This is a golden opportunity for cybercriminals. They know that during this time, people are waiting for refunds and exploit this eagerness to commit fraud.

Today's fraud is no longer as straightforward as it used to be. Scammers send emails, messages, and calls in a highly professional manner. At first glance, everything appears genuine. But one mistake can put your cybersecurity at risk.

Why do cybercriminals target people during ITR filing?

ITR, or Income Tax Return, is the process by which you inform the government of your income and tax paid for the year. During ITR filing, you share your PAN, Aadhaar, bank account, mobile number, and other sensitive information.

This data is gold for cybercriminals. If they somehow obtain your information, it could lead to banking fraud, loan fraud, or identity theft. Therefore, the relationship between ITR filing and cybersecurity is deeply entangled.

How does the ITR refund phishing scam work?
The method of this scam is very clever. You receive an email in your inbox stating, "Your ITR refund has been processed" or "There was an error in the tax calculation. Update your details immediately."

Often, the link in the email resembles a genuine website. As soon as you click on it, you're asked for bank details, an OTP, or your card number. In some cases, the link also installs malware on your device. And
A minute of carelessness can cause significant losses.

The growing network of fake calls and messages
Not just emails, but now fraud is also being perpetrated through calls and SMS. The caller identifies himself as an income tax officer and claims there's an error in your ITR filing. He pressures you to provide information or make a payment immediately. Remember:

No government official asks for bank details or OTP over the phone.

The first rule of cybersecurity is: Don't make decisions in panic.

How to spot a fake ITR email?

With a little caution, you can protect yourself:

Check the email ID carefully; there are often minor spelling mistakes.
Be sure to check the URL before clicking on a link.
Be wary of words like "Urgent" or "Immediate Action Required."
Easy ways to protect yourself.
By taking some important precautions during ITR filing, you can avoid major fraud:

Filing ITR only through the official website.
Do not open any unknown links or attachments.
Keep your mobile and computer updated with antivirus software.
Enable two-factor authentication on all banking and tax accounts.
These small steps will strengthen your cybersecurity.

Why does the lure of a refund become a trap?
People feel happy just hearing the word "refund." Many times, taxpayers are actually waiting for their refund. Cybercriminals take advantage of this sentiment. They know that in their hurry to get a refund, people forget to check the link. Remember:

Government refunds are processed through a set system.

Refunds cannot be obtained by clicking on a link.

What if you accidentally click?

If you accidentally click on a link, take these steps immediately:

Immediately change your bank password
File a complaint with the relevant bank and cybercrime helpline
Scan your device
Taking swift action can minimize losses.

What does it mean for you?
Today, filing an ITR is not just a tax process, but also a digital responsibility. Your personal financial details are available in the digital world. A small negligence can cost you years of earnings.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Zee Business. 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.