Online PAN card fraud—here’s how to detect and report PAN card misuse

What is PAN card fraud?

PAN card fraud involves the misuse of an individual’s permanent account number for illegal activities such as:

Identity theft
Opening unauthorised bank accounts
Securing fraudulent loans
Making unauthorised transactions
Filing fake tax returns

This can result in significant financial losses and legal problems for the unsuspecting victim.

How to detect PAN card scam?

To detect if your PAN card has been misused, it is crucial to regularly monitor your financial and tax-related activities. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Check your credit report: Regularly review your credit report for any unfamiliar accounts or loans opened in your name.
2. Monitor bank statements: Carefully examine your bank statements for any unauthorised transactions or accounts.
3. Verify tax filings: Ensure that your tax returns accurately reflect your actual income and that there are no discrepancies.
4. Watch for alerts: Be attentive to any notifications or communications from financial institutions or tax authorities regarding suspicious activities.

How to report the PAN card scam?

If you suspect that your PAN card has been misused, it is crucial to take immediate action to mitigate the damage and prevent further misuse. Here’s what you should do:

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1. 1. File a police complaint: Visit your nearest police station and lodge an FIR (First Information Report) regarding the misuse of your PAN card.
  2. Inform your bank: Notify your bank about any unauthorised transactions or accounts linked to your PAN card.
  3. Contact the Income Tax Department (ITR): Reach out to the Income Tax Department, both online and offline, to report the misuse of your PAN card.

What are the ways to prevent PAN card fraud?

To avoid becoming a victim of PAN card fraud, consider the following precautions:

1. - When submitting your PAN card details online, ensure that the website URL starts with “https,” indicating a secure connection.
  - When submitting photocopies of your PAN card, attest them and include the reason for the submission.
  - Avoid sharing your full name and date of birth on suspicious websites.
  - Regularly check your credit score to detect any unusual activities.
  - Carefully examine your Form 26AS, which records all transactions linked to your PAN card.

By staying vigilant, reporting any suspicious activities, and taking proactive measures to protect your PAN card details, you can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of PAN card fraud.