Government Alert: Your Pending Tax Refund Message Could Be a Scam

Because tax refunds are getting delayed and many people are eagerly waiting for their money, scammers are trying to take advantage of this situation. They are pretending to be officials from the Income Tax Department and sending fake emails, phone calls, and SMS messages to taxpayers.

In a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the income tax department warned people not to share their OTP, bank details, or any personal information with anyone. According to the alert, these fake messages often have small spelling mistakes and suspicious links that look real. If someone clicks these links, it can lead to identity theft, bank fraud, or misuse of personal tax information.

The department has advised citizens to check all tax-related updates only on the official website, i.e., incometax.gov.in. People should avoid clicking on any links received through email, SMS, or social media claiming refund updates.

The official message also said that fraud messages may create urgency by mentioning refunds or immediate action. Taxpayers are reminded never to share OTPs or banking details. If anyone receives a suspicious message, they should report it to webmanager @incometax.gov.in. and also send a copy to [email protected].

How the tax refund scam works

The Income Tax Department has warned people about a scam where fraudsters send fake messages pretending to be from the department. These messages usually say that your income tax return is delayed, incomplete, or stuck.

The message often uses scary or urgent words like ‘refund pending’ or ‘penalty if not verified’. It also includes a link and asks you to click it.

Once someone clicks the link, it takes them to a fake website that looks very similar to the real Income Tax Department website. On this fake site, people are asked to enter personal details such as bank account information, PAN number, and OTP. Once the victim shares these details, scammers can misuse the information and steal money.

KIND ATTENTION TAXPAYERS!
⚠️ Fake messages may claim a refund or urgent action and push you to click a link.

🛑 Don’t fall for it — never share OTPs or bank details.

✅ Verify communications on the official portal (https://t.co/GYvO3mStKf)

✅ Report suspicious messages to… pic.twitter.com/2icUA3O8f5

— Income Tax India (@IncomeTaxIndia) February 16, 2026

How to report fake or suspicious messages

If you receive any suspicious message related to income tax, you should report it immediately.

You can send an email to webmanager @incometax.gov.in. and also mark a copy to [email protected]. For help, you can call the helpline numbers: 1800 103 0025 or 080 46122000.

E-filing account misuse

Apart from this, if you think your e-filing account might have been compromised or accessed in an unauthorised manner, you may be a victim of a cyber crime.

You can report the incident to the concerned police or cyber cell authorities. The following are the steps to file a complaint:

Step 1: Visit the official website, i.e., https://cybercrime.gov.in/.

Step 2: Fill in the details required, such as PAN, Aadhaar Number, etc., and the brief of the alleged incident. Make sure the details are correct.

Step 3: Mention the date and approximate time of the suspected account misuse and when it came to your attention.

Step 4: Submit any other information, facts, or details of the incident.