How are third-party agents defrauding EPF account holders? Learn easy ways to avoid them.

EPFO services are easily available on the Unified Member Portal and the UMANG app. Despite this, many people unknowingly fall prey to third-party agents and become victims of fraud.

The Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) is considered one of the most reliable savings schemes for employees' retirement. Under this scheme, both the employee and the employer contribute equally to create a secure fund for the future. The EPF is managed by the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO). From time to time, PF account holders need to withdraw money, transfer accounts, or update their KYC details. All these services are easily available on the EPFO's Unified Member Portal and the UMANG app. Despite this, many people unknowingly fall prey to third-party agents and become victims of fraud. Today, we'll tell you how third-party agents are defrauding people and provide some easy ways to avoid them.

How do third-party agents commit fraud?

The EPFO ​​has clarified that it has not authorized any third party to provide PF-related services. Despite this, some people contact individuals via phone calls, SMS, WhatsApp, or email, claiming to be associated with the EPFO. These agents attempt to gain trust by using government names, logos, or official language, and then defraud individuals. All PF-related services, such as withdrawing money, updating KYC, or obtaining account information, are completely free. There is no need to pay any agent or middleman for these services. If someone asks for money in exchange for these services, understand that they are committing fraud.

Which information should never be shared?

The EPFO ​​never asks for Aadhaar number, PAN, bank details, or OTP via phone, message, or email. If someone claiming to be an EPFO ​​agent asks for such information, you should immediately ignore them. Check your PF balance and passbook regularly.

To protect your PF account, it's essential to regularly check your balance and passbook on the EPFO ​​portal or the UMANG app. This will help you detect any suspicious or unauthorized transactions in a timely manner.

What to do if you are scammed?

If you experience any kind of fraud related to your EPFO ​​account, immediately file a complaint with the police. You can also register a complaint on the EPFO's EPF i-Grievance Management System app.