Caution! Fake ‘PAN 2.0’ Emails on the Rise - Government Warns Taxpayers
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A new wave of cyber fraud is targeting taxpayers with deceptive emails about a supposed “PAN 2.0” upgrade. These emails, designed to look official, are actually phishing attempts aimed at stealing your personal information. The government has issued a strong warning to stay vigilant.
What’s the Scam?
Fraudsters are sending out emails that falsely claim the launch of a new version of the PAN card, dubbed “PAN 2.0,” complete with QR codes. These messages often come from suspicious email addresses such as info@smt.plusoasis.com, disguised as official communication from “PAN 2.0 Cards.”
The emails prompt users to click a link to download a free “e-PAN.” However, this link is a trap - it leads to malicious sites designed to steal your financial and personal details.
How to Spot and Avoid the Trap
To protect yourself from falling victim, follow these essential safety tips:
What the Tax Department Says
The Income Tax Department has clarified that it does not send unsolicited emails asking for confidential details such as passwords, bank accounts, or card numbers. It also does not provide any new “e-PAN” via download links sent over email.
Stay Safe, Stay Smart
In today’s digital age, cybercriminals are becoming more creative. Always double-check before clicking or responding to unexpected messages. When in doubt, ignore and report. It’s better to be cautious than compromised.
What’s the Scam?
Fraudsters are sending out emails that falsely claim the launch of a new version of the PAN card, dubbed “PAN 2.0,” complete with QR codes. These messages often come from suspicious email addresses such as info@smt.plusoasis.com, disguised as official communication from “PAN 2.0 Cards.”
The emails prompt users to click a link to download a free “e-PAN.” However, this link is a trap - it leads to malicious sites designed to steal your financial and personal details.
How to Spot and Avoid the Trap
To protect yourself from falling victim, follow these essential safety tips:
- Inspect the email sender carefully – Don’t trust emails from unfamiliar or odd-looking addresses.
- Never click on unknown links or download attachments – These may contain malware or redirect you to phishing sites.
- Don’t reply or share any personal data – Even simple responses can be risky.
- Stay alert against calls or messages asking for financial information – Legitimate authorities will never request sensitive details this way.
- Report anything suspicious – Send suspicious emails to webmanager@incometax.gov.in or incident@cert-in.org.in.
What the Tax Department Says
The Income Tax Department has clarified that it does not send unsolicited emails asking for confidential details such as passwords, bank accounts, or card numbers. It also does not provide any new “e-PAN” via download links sent over email.
Stay Safe, Stay Smart
In today’s digital age, cybercriminals are becoming more creative. Always double-check before clicking or responding to unexpected messages. When in doubt, ignore and report. It’s better to be cautious than compromised.
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