As the deadline for filing income tax returns (ITR) for FY 2024–25 approaches, many taxpayers are receiving notices from the Income Tax Department. While some are genuine, scammers are exploiting this period by sending fake notices to trick people into sharing sensitive financial details. Here’s how you can identify the difference.

1. Why Are Income Tax Notices Issued?

The Income Tax Department issues notices for:

Discrepancies in tax filings

Missing or incorrect details

Requests for additional information

However, cybercriminals send fake notices via email, SMS, or whatsapp to create panic and steal your data. Knowing how to verify authenticity is key to staying safe.

2. The Golden Rule – Check for the DIN

Every genuine notice issued by the department after October 1, 2019, carries a Document Identification Number (DIN).

Valid Notice: Contains a DIN that can be verified.

Fake Notice: No DIN mentioned, hence no legal value.

If your notice lacks a DIN, treat it as fraudulent and avoid responding.

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Verify a Tax Notice

Follow these simple steps on the official portal:

Visit www.incometax.gov.in

Go to “Quick Links” → “Authenticate notice/order issued by ITD”

Enter the DIN number and your registered mobile number

Submit and enter the OTP received on your phone

If genuine, a “Success” message will appear

If fake, the system will show “No record found”

Verification takes only a few minutes and saves you from potential fraud.

4. What to Do If the Notice Is Fake

Do not reply or click on any links.

Never share PAN, Aadhaar, or banking details.

Report it to the National Cybercrime Portal or call the helpline 1930.

Forward suspicious emails to webmanager@incometax.gov.in for official review.

5. Why Scammers Choose This Time

With the ITR deadline of September 15, 2025, approaching, taxpayers are anxious to avoid penalties. Fraudsters exploit this fear to send urgent-sounding messages that pressure you into taking quick action—without verification.

Key Takeaway

Not all tax notices are real. Before reacting, always:

Check for a DIN number

Verify through the official Income Tax portal

Report fake messages to authorities

A two-minute verification can save you from scams and unnecessary panic.