The cybercrime branch of the Rajasthan Police has issued a public advisory warning taxpayers about a surge in online frauds amid the ongoing income tax return (ITR) filing season. Criminals are reportedly targeting individuals with fake promises of tax refunds, urgent PAN-Aadhaar linking and profile verification to steal sensitive personal and financial data.
According to officials, fraudsters are using phishing emails, text messages and phone calls claiming a person's tax refund is pending or their ITR contains errors. Victims are then directed to click on links leading to fraudulent websites designed to mimic the official income tax portal. These sites collect confidential details, including PAN, Aadhaar numbers, bank account information, login credentials and one-time passwords (OTPs).
In some cases, taxpayers receive emails with attachments disguised as ITR receipts. Once downloaded, these files can infect devices with malware, enabling hackers to access personal data. The police have also observed a rise in fake refund messages being circulated via WhatsApp and other social media platforms, often using forged logos or QR codes to appear authentic.
The cybercrime branch has urged citizens to remain vigilant and conduct all tax-related activities exclusively through the official income tax website. Taxpayers are advised to verify email senders, avoid sharing OTPs or account details, and refrain from clicking on unknown links or scanning QR codes from unverified sources.
CAclubindia
