In today’s digital world, as banking and financial transactions have shifted online, the incidence of fraud has also risen. Scammers are constantly finding new ways to deceive individuals. While we shouldn’t completely avoid online platforms to steer clear of fraud, it’s essential to remain vigilant. Historically, there have been numerous instances of cyber fraud involving PAN cards.
The PAN card serves more purposes than just tax filing. In India, it is recognized as a government-issued identity card, similar to the Aadhaar card. Additionally, the PAN card is linked to both Aadhaar and bank accounts, which is why fraudsters exploit this connection to drain people’s bank accounts.
Anyone can fall victim to cyber fraud. Therefore, when using your PAN card online, it’s important to keep certain precautions in mind to protect yourself from becoming a target.
Here are some tips to consider when using your PAN card:
1. Avoid entering your PAN number on unfamiliar websites to prevent scammers from accessing your bank account. Always verify the legitimacy of a website before providing your PAN number.
2. Since your PAN card is linked to your bank and Aadhaar, consider using alternative forms of identification, like a driver’s license or voter ID, instead of sharing your PAN card everywhere.
3. Only share photocopies of your PAN card with trusted individuals and organizations. If you must provide a copy to a company, make sure to sign and date it. Keep a record of where you’ve shared your PAN card details.
4. Refrain from using your full name and date of birth on unknown websites, as this information can be used to trace your PAN.
5. Remove any PAN card details from your phone to prevent potential leaks if your device is lost.
