PAN Card Misuse: Simple Ways to Find Out If a Loan Exists in Your Name

With rising cases of identity theft in India, PAN card misuse has become a growing concern. Fraudsters often use stolen PAN details to take loans in someone else’s name, leaving victims with damaged credit scores and financial stress. The good news? You can easily detect and prevent such frauds with the right steps.

Why PAN Card Misuse is Dangerous

Your Permanent Account Number (PAN) is directly tied to your credit history. This means any loan - genuine or fraudulent - will appear in your credit report. Even if you never applied for it, a false entry can impact your CIBIL score and harm your future financial credibility.

How to Check If a Loan Has Been Taken Using Your PAN

1. Review Your Credit Report Regularly

• Obtain your free annual credit report from bureaus like CIBIL, Experian, Equifax, or CRIF High Mark.
• Verify using your PAN and registered mobile number.
• Go through the report carefully to identify any loans or credit cards you don’t recognise.

Also Read: How to Change Your PAN Card Photo Online and Offline: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

2. Spot Warning Signs of Fraud

• Loans or credit cards you never applied for.
• Unknown lender names or strange account numbers.
• Hard inquiries that you didn’t authorise.

If you notice such red flags, it’s a strong indicator of PAN card fraud.

What to Do If You Find a Fake Loan

• Contact the lender immediately and report the fraudulent loan.
• Dispute the entry with the credit bureau through their online dispute system.
• Submit proof of identity, loan details, and a signed affidavit.
• File a complaint with your local cybercrime cell, providing evidence of misuse.

Taking these steps quickly ensures the fraudulent loan doesn’t impact your credit history for long.

Also Read: Lost Your PAN Card? Here’s How To Easily Get A Replacement Online

Tips to Prevent Future PAN Card Misuse

• Never share your PAN details on unsafe websites or apps.
• Avoid giving out photocopies unless absolutely necessary.
• If your PAN card is lost, apply for a reprint immediately.
• Enable SMS/email alerts for loans and credit activities linked to your PAN.
• Use strong passwords for all financial accounts.

Your PAN is as sensitive as your Aadhaar or bank PIN, and protecting it is essential for your financial safety. Regularly monitoring your credit report, staying alert for suspicious activity, and securing your information are the best defences against PAN card misuse and loan frauds.