Fake PAN services messages and links
Fake PAN texts about inactive cards, reactivation fees, e-PAN downloads and bank linking fines. See the lines and check status safely.
PAN services cover applying for, correcting, reprinting and linking the Permanent Account Number used for tax in India. Because many people use it, scammers pretend to be PAN services in SMS, WhatsApp and email messages. This page lists the lies they usually tell and how to check before you act.
Lines used in fake PAN services messages
- Your PAN card is inactive, reactivate by paying Rs 10
- PAN correction approved, download the e-PAN from this link
- Link PAN with your bank account today to avoid a fine
- New PAN 2.0 card dispatched, confirm your address and Aadhaar
How to verify it yourself
Apply for or fix a PAN only through the official portals of the Income Tax Department or its authorised service providers, which you reach by typing the address by hand. Linking status can be checked in the e-filing portal. No PAN is made without documents, and banks do not ask you to share a code on a call to link it. If your PAN appears misused, review your credit report and visit your bank branch, rather than paying someone online.
Quick checklist
- Do not tap links or call numbers inside the message.
- Open the official app, or type the official website yourself, and look for the same notice.
- Never share an OTP, PIN, CVV or password with anyone, including "staff".
- If money moved, call 1930 and your bank at once.
How Safeavio helps
Paste the message or the link into Safeavio Sentinel (or share it to the app) and it shows a plain verdict with the reasons: urgency, a money demand, a lookalike address or an OTP request. It checks the text you give it and cannot promise to catch every scam.
Check it before you tap or pay
Safeavio Sentinel is a made-in-India Android app: paste a message or link, or scan a QR code, and get a plain verdict with the reasons. It helps you spot a scam; it does not promise to stop every one.
Download for AndroidWhat the app does
Google Play listing: coming soon. Today the signed APK is on safeavio.com/download. Android 7.0 or later.
Questions
How can I tell if a PAN services message is real?
Do not judge by the sender name or the logo; both can be copied. Open the official PAN services app or type its website yourself and look for the same notice. PAN services will not ask for your OTP, PIN or password in a message.
What should I do if I tapped a link in a fake PAN services message?
Close the page without typing anything. If you entered details, change the password at once from the official app, call your bank or provider using the number on your card or bill, and report at cybercrime.gov.in. If money moved, call 1930.
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Fake PAN services calls and apps · All brands
Other government services
PAN services is a trademark of its owner. This page is not affiliated with or endorsed by PAN services; it only describes how scammers pretend to be it.