The Indian government is alerting taxpayers to a widespread phishing scam involving fraudulent emails offering upgraded "PAN 2.0" cards. These deceptive emails falsely claim that the Income Tax Department has launched a new version of the Permanent Account Number (PAN) card with enhanced features, such as QR codes.

The Anatomy of the Scam

These fraudulent emails often appear to come from addresses like info@smt.plusoasis.com. They use subject lines such as "Get Your PAN 2.0 Card" and urge recipients to click a link to download their "e-PAN". However, these emails are not legitimate and are designed to steal sensitive personal and financial data. Clicking on the provided link redirects users to fake websites that mimic official government portals. These fake websites then prompt users to enter sensitive information, including their PAN, Aadhaar number, banking details, and login credentials.

Government Confirmation and Warnings

The Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact Check team has officially labeled these emails as fake, confirming that they do not originate from any legitimate government department. The PIB Fact Check unit has warned citizens to check the sender's email address, avoid clicking on links or attachments, and not respond to such messages. The Income Tax Department has also clarified that it does not send unsolicited emails or messages requesting personal data, such as bank account numbers, credit card details, or passwords. Authorities have reiterated that e-PAN services are provided exclusively through official government websites and not through email links.

How to Protect Yourself

• Be wary of unsolicited emails: The Income Tax Department does not send emails asking for sensitive financial information or offering e-PAN downloads through links.
• Check the sender's address: Examine the sender's email address for any inconsistencies or unfamiliar domains. Official government communications will always come from verified government domains.
• Avoid clicking on links: Do not click on any links or attachments in suspicious emails. These links can lead to fake websites designed to steal your information.
• Verify information on official websites: Always verify any tax-related information or services on the official Income Tax Department website (incometax.gov.in).
• Report phishing attempts: If you receive a suspicious email, report it immediately to webmanager@incometax.gov.in or incident@cert-in.org.in.

Consequences of Falling for the Scam

Victims who enter their details on these fake websites risk exposing their PAN, Aadhaar, banking information, and login credentials. This information can be used for identity theft, financial fraud, and unauthorized access to financial accounts.

The Importance of Vigilance

As the tax filing season intensifies, it is crucial to remain vigilant and aware of these types of scams. Always double-check the legitimacy of any email or message claiming to be from the Income Tax Department. By following these guidelines, taxpayers can protect themselves from falling victim to the fake "PAN 2.0" scam and other phishing attempts.