Scam Alert: Have you also received this email regarding an income tax refund? Stop! Your bank account could be emptied..

The Income Tax Department has recently warned taxpayers about a new wave of fraudulent refund emails and messages. These emails appear official, but in reality, scammers are using them to trick people into revealing personal and banking information. Often, these emails contain minor spelling mistakes and fake links that, when clicked, can lead to your information being stolen.

How do phishing emails work?
Scammers try to make it seem like the email or message is from the Income Tax Department and that you are about to receive a refund. They then encourage the user to click on a fake link. If you click on the link and fill in sensitive information such as passwords, OTPs, bank details, or Aadhaar details, your data can be stolen, leading to bank fraud.

How to stay safe
The department has stated that all tax-related information should only be verified through the official website www.incometax.gov.in. Avoid clicking on any email, SMS, or social media links. If you receive a suspicious email, forward it immediately to webmanager@incometax.gov.in and send a copy to incident@cert-in.org.in. This helps authorities prevent online tax scams.

Detection of fraudulent deductions and exemptions
Besides fraudulent refunds, cases of fraudulent deductions and exemptions in income tax filings have also come to light. The department has found that some agents were operating a network across the country, filing incorrect income tax returns for a commission. These claims are often made in the name of Registered Unrecognized Political Parties (RUPPs) or certain charitable organizations to evade taxes and claim fraudulent refunds.

How is the fraud detected?
The Income Tax Department uses advanced data analytics and AI-based profiling. Unusual patterns are detected by cross-referencing banking records, trust filings, Form 26AS, PAN database, and transaction trails. Where irregularities are found, search, survey, and follow-up actions are initiated under Sections 132 and 133A.

Key Advice for Taxpayers:
The Income Tax Department emphasizes that no official email or SMS will ever ask for passwords, OTPs, bank details, or Aadhaar information. Always check for updates only on the official website and verified social media handles. Report any suspicious or unusual communication immediately. Such vigilance will not only protect your finances but also help prevent income tax fraud.

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