SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Police have cautioned people against fraudulent WhatsApp messages claiming that income tax refunds are pending, warning that cybercriminals may use such messages to steal personal and banking information.
The advisory highlights a fake message purporting to be from the Income Tax Department, which tells recipients that a refund of Rs 25,760 is awaiting payment and asks them to verify their Permanent Account Number (PAN) and bank details within 24 hours to avoid a penalty.
The message directs recipients to a suspicious website, `incometax-refund.in`, in an apparent attempt to prompt them to disclose sensitive information. Police have urged people not to click on unverified links or provide personal details in response to unsolicited messages.
People have been advised to check the status of any genuine tax refund through the official Income Tax Department website, [www.incometax.gov.in](http://www.incometax.gov.in), or its official app rather than relying on links received through WhatsApp.
The advisory also warns against sharing PAN, Aadhaar, bank account details or one-time passwords (OTPs) with anyone over messaging platforms or telephone calls. Recipients have been urged to verify claims independently before taking any action.
Those who suspect that they have encountered cyber fraud, or require assistance, can contact the national cybercrime helpline on 1930.
Police have urged the public to remain vigilant against online scams and exercise caution when dealing with messages demanding urgent action or the disclosure of financial information.
