With the Central Government approving the Income Tax Department’s project to introduce QR codes on all PAN cards, cyberspace is abuzz with concerns about the potential risks this feature could pose to PAN cardholders. Here’s how the QR code could invite fraud.

Do Not Click on ‘Apply’ Links

While following the above authentic process, please be cautious and avoid clicking on any website links claiming to offer a new PAN card application. Fraudsters are using fake websites to trick people into losing their savings. You might receive messages from cybercriminals offering a new PAN card, with a link urging you to click if you want to apply for the PAN 2.0 card. Be cautious—this could be a scam. These links may lead to fraudulent sites where scammers can access your personal information, potentially emptying your bank account or using it for other malicious purposes.

May Request OTP And Ask To Follow Instructions

Subsequently, Fraudsters may also call you, as they are doing right now, claiming that your PAN card has been blocked and that you need to apply for a new one. Do not act hastily. During such calls, they try to obtain sensitive information such as OTPs, Aadhaar details, or bank account information. As a result, victims fall prey to fraud.

How To Get A Real PAN Card with QR Code

Taxpayers can now request a reprint of their PAN card, complete with an embedded QR code, for a nominal fee of Rs 50. This service is available through authorized providers, NSDL and UTI Infrastructure and Technology Services Ltd (UTIITSL). The reprinted PAN card will include a QR code that securely stores the taxpayer’s details and will also be sent digitally to the taxpayer’s registered email address.

Should You Upgrade Your PAN Card to a QR Code Version?

Individuals holding white PAN cards or those without QR codes do not necessarily need to upgrade to the new QR version. As Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has clarified that existing PAN cards will remain valid.

He added that the upgrade is aimed at enhancing functionality without affecting the validity of current cards. However, experts believe that the updated PAN card design with PAN 2.0 will reduce fraud risks through integrated QR code While enabling quick verification.

The Income Tax Department has clarified that those who have PAN card do not need PAN 2.0. But, if you want to make PAN card with QR code, then you can apply online. This PAN will be sent to your mail or you can also download it from NSDL website.

This service is free for up to three requests within 30 days of PAN issue. Subsequent requests will be charged Rs 8.26 including GST. However, if you want a physical PAN, then you will have to pay a fee of Rs 50 for it.

Permanent Account Number (PAN) acts as a unique identifier for financial transactions and tax-related activities. This revamped system aims to make PAN a common identifier for digital transactions across government systems, promoting consistency and simplifying compliance.