Income Tax Refund Scam Alert: Rajasthan Police Warn Citizens to Stay Sharp
If you’ve received a message lately promising a quick income tax refund, think twice before clicking anything.
The Rajasthan Police has sounded the alarm over a fresh wave of online scams where fraudsters are posing as tax officials to dupe people.
How the Scam Works
It usually starts with a simple SMS, email, or even a WhatsApp forward. The message looks official — complete with logos and refund amounts — and asks you to click a link or fill out a form.
That link? It’s rarely the real incometax.gov.in portal. Instead, it’s a near-perfect copy designed to steal your PAN, Aadhaar, bank details, and even OTPs.
Some victims have also reported getting APK files disguised as “ITR receipts.” Install those, and you could be handing over full control of your phone to the scammer.
In other cases, QR codes are sent for “instant refunds.” Scan them, and your bank account may be the one refunding money — to the criminal.
Why This Warning Matters Now
Police say these scams spike during tax season, when people are already expecting messages from the income tax department. The urgency to “claim your refund now” makes it easier for criminals to trick even cautious users.
What You Should Do
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Only check your refund status on the official income tax website.
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Don’t click on links sent via SMS or social media — type the web address yourself.
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Never download tax-related files from unknown senders.
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Be wary of any QR code claiming to speed up refunds.
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Report suspicious messages immediately at cybercrime.gov.in or call 1930.
The police have also put out helpline numbers (9256001930 / 9257510100) for quick reporting.
The Bottom Line
Scammers rely on urgency, fear, and the hope of quick money.
Slow down. Double-check the source. And remember — the income tax department will never ask you to share bank passwords or scan random QR codes to get your own money back.
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