The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has launched a new system of QR-coded summons to combat the rising threat of fake notices and extortion attempts. This move aims to protect the public from fraudsters impersonating ED officers and sending counterfeit summons for the purpose of cheating or extorting money.
In recent times, the ED has noticed multiple instances where individuals have received fake summons that closely resemble genuine ED communications. These fabricated documents make it difficult for recipients to distinguish between authentic and fraudulent summons, leaving them vulnerable to scams and extortion. The new system addresses this issue by providing a mechanism for individuals to verify the authenticity of the summons they receive.
Under the new system, all summons issued by the ED will include a QR code and a unique passcode. Recipients can verify the authenticity of a summons through two methods:
- Scanning the QR code: Scanning the QR code printed on the summons will redirect the user to the ED's official website. After entering the unique passcode printed on the summons, the website will display key details such as the recipient's name, the issuing officer's name and designation, and the date of the summons. If the details match, the summons is genuine.
- Website Verification: Visit the official website https://enforcementdirectorate.gov.in and click on 'Verify Your Summons'. Enter the summons number and unique passcode in the respective fields. The corresponding details will appear on screen if the summons is genuine.
The ED has instructed its officials to issue summons exclusively through this system, except in exceptional circumstances. Each system-generated summons will be duly signed and stamped by the issuing officer and will include their official email ID and phone number for correspondence.
The agency has clarified that the verification of summons can be done 24 hours after the date of issuance, excluding public holidays, Saturdays, and Sundays. For summons that could not be generated through the digital system, individuals can contact designated point of contact at the ED headquarters for manual verification.
The ED has also cautioned the public against "digital arrests" and other fraudulent practices employed by scammers. The agency has clarified that arrests made by ED are always physical and carried out in person, following due procedure. There is no concept of "Digital Arrest" or "Online Arrest" under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002. The ED has advised the public to remain vigilant and not fall prey to fraudsters impersonating ED officers.
This initiative by the ED is a crucial step towards ensuring transparency and public trust in the agency's operations. By implementing this QR-coded summons system, the ED aims to curb the menace of fake notices and extortion attempts, protecting individuals from financial fraud and harassment. The move reflects the agency's commitment to adopting technological solutions to combat financial crime and safeguard the interests of the public.
