Cyberabad police caution people against PAN 2.0 fraud

Hyderabad: As the central government has introduced PAN 2.0 to replace the existing PAN card, the Cyberabad police has advised the citizens to not fall prey to fraudsters or cyber criminals.

A 24-second video shared on Cyberabad Police X account starts with this message, “The government is updating PAN card to a new version - PAN 2.- and the updated card will be sent directly to your registered address.”

It further notes, “NO ACTION is required from you.” Later, the video cautioned the citizens against responding to “calls, texts, or emails asking you to update your PAN, ignore them.” The message ends with “Beware of Scammer.”

General public has been advised to report any suspicious websites, helpline numbers, or apps to the cybercrime helpline (1930) or the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in).

Every Indian citizen who owns a 10-digit alphanumeric PAN (Permanent Account Number) knows its significance in matters related to financial transactions. This is an essential document for every taxpayer as it contains a unique identifier and it is utilized for financial and tax purposes.

Last November, the Union Cabinet approved the PAN 2.0 project to make this essential document the “single source of truth and data consistency”.

The existing PAN card holders are not required to reapply for PAN 2.0 upgrades. Their current PAN cards will continue to be valid with the introduction of PAN 2.0. If you need to update or correct information such as your name and date of birth on your existing PAN card, you can request a reprint or apply for a new PAN card.

Points to remember:

No action is needed from you to upgrade your PAN card

Exercise caution if you receive a call or message from scammers requesting payment to upgrade your PAN card

Remember it is not mandatory to upgrade your existing PAN card

Do not answer the phone call of scammers nor transfer money to expedite the processing of your PAN upgrade

Do not click on unfamiliar and suspicious links promising a PAN 2.0 upgrade

Beware of fake helpline numbers and call centers