People's personal and banking information is being stolen by sending fake emails in the name of downloading PAN 2.0. This is a phishing scam, and to avoid it, do not click on any unknown links and only use the official website.
PAN 2.0 Scam: In the era of Digital India, where every service has gone online, cyber thugs have also made their tactics high-tech. The latest case is a new fake email scam called 'PAN 2.0', in which millions of users are being sent an attractive but deadly link. If you have also received an email in your inbox like 'Download your PAN 2.0 now', then be careful. This is not a government service but a serious phishing attack that can destroy your personal and financial security in minutes.
What is this PAN 2.0 Scam?
Under this scam, users are sent a professional-looking email stating that your new 'PAN 2.0' card is ready and you can download it from the link given below. The email usually contains the Information Tax Department logo, a fake QR code, and an attractive download button. As soon as you click on that link, you are taken to a fake website that looks exactly like a government website. Here, you are asked to fill in details such as PAN number, Aadhaar card number, date of birth, mobile number, and even bank details. But all this information goes directly to the cyber thugs' server.
How Dangerous is This Fraud?
The most dangerous thing about this fraud is that its presentation looks very real. The language, design, format, and even the URL of the email seem quite trustworthy.
Once you have provided your information, the scammers can use it to:
- Withdraw money from your bank account
- Take out loans in your name
- Misuse your identity
- Link your PAN and Aadhaar to any illegal activity
How to Identify a Fake Email?
The government has not yet launched any 'PAN 2.0' card or facility.
Therefore, if any mail, SMS, or WhatsApp message claims this, then understand that it is fake. Some signs that will help in identifying this scam:
- If the website URL does not end with .gov.in, then it is not a government website.
- Check the email sender's address – often they are fake addresses like '[email protected]'.
- Stay away from any link in the mail that says 'click here'.
- If the language appeals to click quickly – such as 'download immediately' – then it is an alert sign.
What to do to Avoid the Scam?
- Never click on links given in any unknown mail or message.
- Fill in your personal information only on the government website, such as – www.incometax.gov.in
- Before opening any unknown website in the browser, check its SSL certificate (https://).
- Keep changing the passwords of your online accounts every few months.
- Keep the anti-virus updated on your mobile and computer.
What to do if you Accidentally Click on the Link?
If you have unknowingly clicked on that link or filled in your information, then take these steps immediately:
- Contact your bank and card company and block all transactions
- Immediately change the passwords and UPI PINs of all online accounts
- Register a cybercrime report by visiting www.cybercrime.gov.in
- Complain to your nearest cyber police station
- Take a screenshot of the fake email and report it as spam to Google or the mail service
What did PIB and the Income Tax Department Say?
PIB Fact Check and the Income Tax Department have both tweeted warnings to the public about this scam. They have clearly stated that no service or email in the name of 'PAN 2.0' has been issued by the government. PIB has described it as a phishing attack whose purpose is to steal personal and financial information from people.
