Pan Card Fraud Alert: Your PAN card is a vital document for any taxpayer in India. It acts like a key, unlocking your financial information to the Income Tax Department. But just like any key, if it falls into the wrong hands, it can lead to big trouble.
Recently, a student from Gwalior faced a nightmare when scammers misused his PAN card to run an illegal company and conduct transactions worth a whopping ₹46 crore! This story highlights the growing risk of PAN card fraud, where criminals steal your identity and financial details for their own gain.
Don’t worry, there are ways to fight back! Here’s what you need to know:
Spotting PAN Card Misuse
- Check for Unfamiliar Businesses: Visit the GST website (https://www.gst.gov.in/) and use the “Search Taxpayer” option. Enter your PAN details to see if any companies are registered under your name.
Reporting PAN Card Fraud
- File a Complaint Online: Head to the Income Tax Department’s TIN portal (https://www.incometax.gov.in/iec/foportal/). Under “Customer Care,” choose “Complaints/Queries” and fill out the form detailing the misuse.
Preventing PAN Card Fraud
- Beware of Unsecured Websites: When entering your PAN online, always check for the “https” in the URL. This indicates a secure connection that protects your information.
- Secure Your PAN Photocopies: Whenever submitting a photocopy, write the reason and date along with your signature for better record-keeping.
- Guard Your Personal Details: Don’t share your full name and birth date on suspicious websites, as these details can be used to track your PAN.
- Monitor Your Credit Score: Regularly check your credit score for any suspicious activity.
- Stay Informed with Form 26AS: This form provides a detailed transaction history linked to your PAN. Keep an eye out for any irregularities.
Remember, your PAN card is your financial key. By following these steps and staying vigilant, you can safeguard yourself from PAN card fraud and keep your finances secure.
