How to Verify PAN & Income Tax Scam Messages

Scam messages now look almost identical to official communication. They use correct logos, formal language, and links that closely resemble real government websites. At a quick glance, it is hard to tell the difference.

Since PAN and Aadhar cards are linked to your bank accounts, investments, loans, and tax records, it becomes a valuable target. If someone gains access to it, the damage can go beyond one transaction. Identity misuse and financial fraud often begin with a simple click.

In recent months, scams using phrases like “PAN blocked,” “refund pending,” and even “PAN 2.0 upgrade” have become more common. Knowing how these scams work and how to verify messages safely is now essential for every taxpayer/citizen.

Why Are PAN-Related Scams Increasing?

A PAN (Permanent Account Number) is not just a tax number. It is used across banking, investments, high-value transactions, and income tax filings. It connects financial records under one identity. That makes it useful and attractive to fraudsters.

When scammers target PAN details, they are not always looking for the card itself. They are trying to collect linked information. This may include

• Date of birth
• Mobile number
• Aadhaar details
• Login credentials
• Linked bank accounts

Once combined, these details can be misused for identity fraud or unauthorized access. Scammers also know that any message related to tax or compliance creates urgency. Words like “blocked,” “penalty,” or “refund” trigger quick reactions. People act fast to avoid legal trouble or to claim money. This mix of financial linkage and emotional pressure is why PAN-related scams continue to rise.

What are Some Common PAN & Income Tax–Related Scams?

These scams are not limited to fake messages and links, they also include phone calls where fraudsters impersonate officials to extract sensitive information.

1. “PAN Blocked” or “PAN Suspended” SMS Scam

This is one of the most common PAN-related scams. You receive a message saying:

• Your PAN will be blocked within 24 hours
• Immediate action is required to avoid suspension
• Update KYC to keep PAN active

The message includes a link. It looks official. The website may use government colours and layout. But the domain name is slightly different from the real one.

The purpose is to create urgency. When people fear their PAN will be blocked, they act fast. That is exactly what scammers want.

2. Fake Income Tax Refund Link Scam

This Income tax fraud promises money. You may receive an email or SMS saying a tax refund is pending. A specific amount is often mentioned to make it look genuine. The message asks you to click a link to “process” or “claim” the refund. The link usually opens a website that looks similar to the official portal of the Income Tax Department. Once you enter your details, the information is captured.

In some cases, the page may ask for:

• Bank account number
• Debit or credit card details
• CVV
• OTP

3. Fake Aadhaar–PAN Linking Portal Scam

People facing compliance deadlines are more likely to fall for this scam because they are already under pressure to complete formalities.

You may receive a message saying your Aadhaar must be linked with PAN immediately to avoid penalty. The message includes a link that looks official. The website may copy the design of the real portal. It may even use similar colours, fonts, and layout. But the domain name will be slightly different.

Common tricks include:

• Using “.com” instead of “.gov.in”
• Adding an extra letter in the domain
• Inserting a hyphen or number

Once you enter your PAN, Aadhaar number, and OTP, the data is captured.

4. PAN 2.0 Upgrade Scam

This is a newer version of PAN-related fraud. The message may say:

• Download your new PAN 2.0 card now
• Upgrade to PAN 2.0 to avoid deactivation
• Generate your PAN 2.0 instantly

It may look formal and technical. It may mention system upgrades or digital improvements. The link provided often leads to a fake website designed to collect personal details.

There is no process where taxpayers receive random links to upgrade their PAN. Any genuine update related to PAN services will be communicated officially and handled through secure portals.

5. Fake Call From “Income Tax Officer” Scam

This scam happens over phone calls. You may receive a call from someone claiming to be an officer from the Income Tax Department. The caller may sound formal and confident. They may use technical terms to appear genuine.

Common claims include:

• Large tax dues are pending under your PAN
• Your PAN is linked to suspicious transactions
• Legal action will begin immediately
• An arrest warrant may be issued

The caller creates pressure. You may be asked to:

• Transfer money immediately
• Share OTP for “verification”
• Install a screen-sharing or remote access app

If you receive such a call, do not panic. Do not share any details. Disconnect and verify independently through official channels.

How to Verify PAN & Income Tax Messages Safely?

Verification should be simple. It should not depend on how real a message looks. The safest habit is to ignore the link provided and check independently.

Step 1 – Access the Official Portal Directly

Type the website directly into your browser. Do not click links from SMS, email, or messaging apps.

• Income Tax e-Filing Portal: https://www.incometax.gov.in
• UTI Infrastructure Technology and Services Limited (PAN services): https://www.pan.utiitsl.com
• Protean eGov Technologies (PAN services): https://www.protean-tinpan.com

Do not click links received through SMS, email, or messaging apps. Even if the message looks genuine, avoid using its link. Any update, correction, or Aadhaar–PAN linking should be done only through the official website after you log in securely. It should never be completed through a link sent in a message.

Step 2 – Check the Sender Carefully

Before reacting, look at who sent the message.

• Is it coming from a random 10-digit mobile number?
• Does it look like a personal email ID?
• Does the link/message/mail contain unusual characters or spelling errors?

Official communication from government departments usually comes through registered sender IDs or official domains. Random mobile numbers and informal email IDs are warning signs.

Step 3 – Login and Check Your Dashboard

After logging in to the official Income Tax e-filing website, check your account notifications.

If there is:

• A tax demand
• A refund
• A compliance alert
• A notice related to PAN

It will appear inside your official dashboard. If nothing appears there, the message you received is likely not genuine.

Step 4 – Examine the Website Address Carefully

Before entering any details, look at the domain name.

Fraud websites often:

• Add extra letters like (www.incomeetax.gov.in, notice the extra ‘e’)
• Insert hyphens or numbers (www.income-tax-gov.in)

Even a small spelling difference means the site is not official.

Step 5 – Never Share Sensitive Information

No legitimate authority will ask for:

• OTP
• Debit or credit card number
• CVV
• Net banking password
• Screen-sharing access

If any message or caller asks for this, do not proceed. Report the number and treat it as a scam.

Step 6 – Act Fast If You Have Shared Details

If you clicked a suspicious link or shared information, quick reporting improves the chances of limiting financial loss.

• Contact your bank immediately
• Call 1930 for cyber fraud assistance
• Report the incident on the National Cyber Crime Portal