Government Issues Alert on Fake "PAN 2.0" Email Scam: What You Need to Know

The Indian government has issued a serious warning to taxpayers about a fake phishing email targeting individuals with false promises of a new "PAN 2.0" card. These fake messages attempt to trick recipients into revealing personal and financial information.

The Scam: What the Phishing Emails Claim

The fraudulent emails appear to originate from suspicious addresses like info@smt.plusoasis.com. They carry subject lines such as “Get Your PAN 2.0 Card” and claim that a new version of the Permanent Account Number (PAN) card—with QR code capabilities—is now available. The emails urge users to click a link to download their so-called upgraded "e-PAN."

Confirmed Fake: PIB and Tax Department Respond

The Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact Check team has flagged these messages as completely fake and part of a cybercrime operation. In an official statement on social media, PIB warned:

“Do not respond to emails, calls, or SMS asking you to share financial and sensitive information. Report such phishing attempts immediately.”

The Income Tax Department has also clarified that it does not send unsolicited emails or messages requesting personal data, such as bank account numbers, credit card details, or passwords.

Authorities have reiterated that e-PAN services are provided exclusively through official government websites. Any communication suggesting otherwise—especially emails with links—is likely fraudulent.

How the Fake "PAN 2.0" Scam Works?

1. Victims receive an email promoting a new "PAN 2.0" card with QR code features.
2. The message urges users to click on a link to download their updated e-PAN.
3. The link redirects to a fake website mimicking an official government portal.
4. Users who enter details on the site risk exposing their PAN, Aadhaar, banking information, or login credentials.

Why This Scam is Dangerous?

These phishing sites are designed to steal sensitive information that can be used for:

• Identity theft
• Financial fraud
• Unauthorised access to personal accounts

Even a single interaction with such a site can compromise your security.

How to Stay Safe and Report Scams

• Always verify the sender's email address. Government emails typically end with “.gov.in”.
• Never click on suspicious links or download attachments from unknown sources.
• Use only official government portals for any PAN-related services.

Report phishing emails to:

• 📧 webmanager@incometax.gov.in
• 📧 incident@cert-in.org.in

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.