Income tax refund scams: Rajasthan Police warns of fake refund messages. 3 tips to stay safe

The Rajasthan Police has issued a warning about a surge in scams, where fraudsters pose as income tax officials and send messages or emails promising large refunds, PTI reported.

Many of these messages ask recipients to share sensitive financial details to “claim” the refund. These phishing attempts can be highly convincing, often creating a false sense of urgency to trick taxpayers into acting without thinking.

“Fraudsters are contacting people pretending to be income tax officials and promising hefty refunds,” said Vijay Kumar Singh, Additional Director General (Cyber Crime), according to PTI. He added that scammers often request bank account details, credit/debit card numbers, CVV codes, or OTPs. Some messages even include phishing links redirecting users to fake websites designed to steal personal information.

Singh emphasised that the department never asks for OTPs, passwords, or CVV codes via SMS or email, as all account details are already on record through your ITR.

Tips to stay safe:

1. Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited messages or emails regarding tax refunds.

2. Verify any communication directly through the official Income Tax portal.

3. Never share OTPs, passwords, CVVs, or banking information with anyone claiming to be a tax official.

Meanwhile, the deadline for filing Income Tax Returns for non-audit cases for the Financial Year 2024-25 (FY25) was ultimately set as September 16, 2025.

Those who missed the September 16 deadline can still submit a belated return up to December 31, 2025. While a late fee will apply, filing before the year's end is vital to prevent potential penalties or official notices from the Income Tax Department.