Scammers are targeting taxpayers with fake income tax refund messages, according to the fact-checking unit of the Press Information Bureau (PIB). The viral message claims that recipients have been selected for a refund of Rs 15,490 ($208). However, PIB Fact Check has confirmed that this claim is fake and that the income tax department has not sent such a message. Taxpayers are advised to be cautious and not share personal information in response to such scams.
The PIB Fact Check team also reminded taxpayers that the Income Tax Department never provides a link for tax refunds upfront. Refunds are only issued after the proper processing of the Income Tax Return (ITR). Taxpayers are required to verify their returns within 30 days of filing, and failure to do so would invalidate the ITR.
Scammers are tricking taxpayers into updating their bank account information through fraudulent links, the PIB Fact Check team warned. They urged taxpayers to be cautious when sharing sensitive information and always verify the authenticity of messages related to their income tax returns. If anyone comes across suspicious emails or websites pretending to be from the Income Tax Department, they should forward the information to the department for investigation.
To be eligible for an income tax refund, taxpayers must have paid more tax than their actual liability. This might occur if they have paid excess tax through methods like Advance Tax, Tax Deducted at Source (TDS), Tax Collected at Source (TCS), or Self-Assessment Tax. To claim a refund, taxpayers must file their Income Tax Return (ITR) and provide accurate details of their income, deductions, and taxes paid. Filing the ITR online is essential to qualify for a refund. Once the ITR is filed, the Income Tax Department will process and validate the refund claim. If everything is in order, the department will issue the refund amount.
Taxpayers can check the status of their income tax refund on the Income Tax Department’s e-Filing website approximately ten days after the refund is sent.
In conclusion, taxpayers should be on high alert for fraudulent messages claiming to offer income tax refunds. It is crucial to verify the authenticity of any such message and avoid sharing personal information. The Income Tax Department does not send refund links upfront, and refunds are only issued after proper processing of the ITR. By following these precautions, taxpayers can protect themselves from falling victim to scams and ensure the security of their financial information.
