Key Highlights
- Pan 2.0 scam leading to identity thefts
- Scammers targeting masses by leveraging Pan 2.0 card upgrades
- Phishing emails and sms being sent to update Pan 2.0 (essentially malware)
Digitisation is at its boom in India with almost every industry adapting to the online trend. This also has certainly given more opportunities to the cybercriminals to carry on remote phishing attacks on innocent masses. It’s never the same old trick but the scammers take advantages of the latest government schemes as well for cyber attacks.
For a while Pan 2.0 scan has been reported widely by the Indian citizens. A new sophisticated scam targeted at tax payers and other Indian citizens, the Pan 2.0 scam is a big threat that we are breaking down in this article. Alongside, we will also share the steps with which you can stay safe from Pan 2.0 scam.
For the tech geeks, stay updated with the latest cutting-edge gadgets in the market, exclusive tech updates, gadget reviews, and more right on your phone’s screen. Join Giznext’s WhatsApp channel and receive the industry-first tech update.
Also Read: Android Auto Customization: How To Change Wallpaper With And Without Smartphone
Pan Card 2.0 Scam Full Details: What Is It?
Pan Card 2.0 is the new cyber scam in India where criminals are leveraging advanced tricks making users share their PAN card (Permanent Account Number) details. To make this scam real, fake official letters are being created and circulated which looks like is a government advisory document to update PAN card with Pan 2.0.
Scammers are luring innocent tax payers by offering free upgrade to Pan 2.0 eventually taking all the critical PAN card and personal details. In some of the cases, scammers are even providing links and step-by-step guide to download new Pan card for free online. The emails and messages being circulated are hoax and if clicked can empty your bank accounts or can lead some other fraudulent activities being carried on your name.
Also Read: Missed Adhaar Pan Card Linking Deadline: Steps To Link PAN And Adhaar With Screenshots
Pan 2.0 Scam Modus Operandi: How To Stay Safe
1. Phishing Emails And Links
Scammers can send you emails making it look like an official e mail that will contain a link to download the new Pan or the steps to do so. For the latter, it could use a link that will redirect you to the official web page. However, these links and emails are often hoax and contain malware that can give access of your device and personal data to the scammers.
2. Scam Links Via Messages
If you receive SMS from unknown or international number claiming it to be from government organisations asking for PAN upgrade or free download, be aware. It could instead be the scam.
3. Fake OTPs Or Verification Messages
This is also a common approach taken by cybercriminals for the PAN 2.0 scam. Look out from any suspicious message, especially if the number has an international STD code. Don’ t click on the links if you are unsure and verify the authenticity of the sender.
4. WhatsApp Messages
This is similar to the remaining SMS and email message scam, where scammers can send send you malware links on WhatsApp. Refrain from downloading any of such unknown content shared for PAN card update.
