It’s Income Tax Return (ITR) season, and while you’re focused on getting your refunds, scammers are focused on tricking you out of your money. Many people have reported receiving fake messages claiming that their tax refund has been processed with interest — and asking them to click a suspicious link. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe.
⚠️ What Does This Scam Look Like?
- Messages claiming your refund is processed with interest
- Links mimicking the Income Tax Department site
- Requests for bank details, UPI ID, OTPs or card numbers
⚠️ Scam SMS Example:
“Your ITR refund of ₹10,350 is approved. Click here to receive – incometax-refund.in/go/secure”
Looks legit, right? But it’s completely fake.
🔍 How to Check Your Refund Status SAFELY
Only use the official government site: https://www.incometax.gov.in
- Log in using your PAN and password
- Click on the e-File tab
- Select View Filed Returns
- Check your latest return for refund details
💡 Why Are These Scams So Effective?
- Taxpayers are excited to receive refunds
- Scam messages use official language and layout
- They create urgency: “Link valid for 24 hours only”
✅ Quick Safety Tips
- Double-check the sender ID – look for GOVT IDs like “AD-ITDEPT”
- Never share sensitive info through SMS or email
- Always visit incometax.gov.in directly
- Don’t enter card, UPI, or OTP details on unknown sites
📢 Share This & Stay Connected
If you found this helpful, please share it with your friends and family — especially elders and first-time ITR filers.
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