Fake GST notice or registration cancellation message
A message says your GST registration will be cancelled or a penalty is due, and asks you to pay or log in through a link.
Community reports: 0
How it works
- An email or SMS that looks like it comes from the GST department says your registration will be cancelled, or that a penalty or late fee is pending.
- It gives a link to "verify", "reply" or "pay now", which opens a copy of the GST portal or downloads a file.
- Your GST login, OTP or payment goes to the scammer, or the file infects your computer.
What it looks like
Example messages. Numbers and links are masked.
GST ALERT: Your GSTIN 27XXXXX1234X1ZX will be cancelled within 24 hours due to non-filing. Click to verify: gst-verify-portal[.]in
Show Cause Notice: Penalty of Rs 25,000 under GST. Download the notice and pay immediately to avoid suspension. (attachment: GST_Notice.zip)
Red flags
- Link not on gst.gov.in
- A 24-hour deadline
- A file to download or app to install
- Asks for your login password or OTP
The one question to ask
Does the notice appear when you log in to the GST portal yourself by typing the address?
Already paid or shared details?
Log in to the GST portal yourself, change your password, and tell your CA or tax practitioner at once. If you paid or gave bank details, call your bank and 1930 and file a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in; if you opened the attachment, have the computer checked before using it for banking.
1930 · cybercrime.gov.in
Also seen as
- Fake income tax refund or notice email
- Fake e-way bill block message
- Fake "GST officer" call offering a settlement