Income Tax Refund Delay Scam Alert and How to Protect Yourself?

The IT department has issued a public alert after scammers began sending messages that claim a tax refund is delayed, urging taxpayers to click links and share personal details. 

What the Income Tax Department has warned about 

On February 20, 2026, the IT department posted a notice on X stating that fraudulent emails, SMS and calls may request OTPs, bank details, or PAN numbers.  

The notice stresses that genuine communications never ask for such information and that all official updates are available only on the portal www.incometax.gov.in. 

Typical characteristics of fraudulent messages 

Scammers often use minor spelling errors, urgent language such as “refund pending” or “immediate action required”, and URLs that mimic the official site, for example incometax‑refund‑claim.xyz. The messages may also display fake logos and use a tone that creates panic. 

Read More: Income Tax Department Issues Notices to Senior Executives Earning Over ₹50 Lakh for Exemption Misuse! 

How the scam operates 

Victims receive a message containing a link. Clicking the link redirects to a fake website that looks identical to the official portal.  

The site then prompts the user to enter PAN, bank account, and a one‑time password. Once submitted, the data is harvested for identity theft and banking fraud. 

Reporting and protection steps 

Taxpayers should verify any refund status only on www.incometax.gov.in and avoid clicking external links. Suspicious messages can be reported to webmanager@incometax.gov.in with a copy to incident@cert-in.org.in.  

The helpline numbers 1800 103 0025 and 080‑46122000 are also available. If an e‑filing account appears compromised, a complaint can be lodged at https://cybercrime.gov.in/ with details such as PAN, Aadhaar, and timestamps of the incident. 

Conclusion 

The alert highlights the rise in fake refund notifications and provides clear steps for verification and reporting. Following the department’s guidance can help prevent identity theft and financial loss. 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities or companies mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation or 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. 

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