IT return and tax refund: Government shares these screenshots to tell you how criminals are stealing money – Times of India

The Income Tax (IT) department has issued warnings about the scams targeting taxpayers. The department has shared two photos on its official website, alerting those who have filed their Income Tax Returns (ITR) as well as those who may have missed filing tax to be wary of fake calls and pop-up messages claiming recipients are due for a tax refund.

Scam alerts by IT department

The IT department has issued a stern warning to taxpayers about fraudulent calls demanding immediate tax payments.Scammers are posing as IT department officials and pressuring individuals to make urgent payments to avoid penalties.
The department notes that it does not contact taxpayers via phone to demand immediate payments and that any such calls should be treated as suspicious and reported to the authorities.
“Don’t trust unsolicited calls! The Income Tax Department will not call you to make immediate payment,” says the banner on the IT department website.
If you receive a suspicious call, report it to
https://incometaxindia.gov.in/Pages/report-phishing.aspx

A similar warning has been issued for fraud messages. Such texts tell potential victims that their ITRs have been approved and they are eligible for a Rs 15,000 refund. The message also has a link to ‘verify’ account number but in reality it is a scam.
“Don’t fall for fake pop-ups! The Income Tax Department will never contact you through pop-up windows,” the second banner reads.
Here’s how the message may read like:
You have been approved an Income Tax Refund of Rs, 15000/-, the amount will be credited to your account shortly, Please verify your account number 5XXXXX6777. If this is not correct, please update your bank account information by visiting the link below. https://bit.ly/20wpUUX
Taxpayers are advised to remain vigilant and verify any communication from the IT department through official channels.
Don’t click on links or reply to emails requesting bank account details, credit card information, or any other sensitive data. The Income Tax Department communicates with taxpayers through their registered email address.