Waiting for a tax refund is stressful enough. So when a message suddenly appears saying your refund is delayed and needs urgent action, it is easy to panic. Over the past year, refund timelines have already been a major talking point, with many taxpayers complaining online about delays despite filing early.
The government has clarified that refunds are issued only after proper verification and data matching. Where discrepancies, mismatches or scrutiny are involved, the process can take longer. Officials have maintained that most refunds are processed within weeks, but certain cases naturally require additional checks.
This uncertainty has given scammers an opportunity.
Fraudsters are sending SMS messages, emails and even making calls claiming that a refund is pending. These messages usually contain a link and create urgency by warning of penalties or cancellation if immediate action is not taken.
In a recent case, a taxpayer clicked on such a link and shared details, resulting in a loss of Rs 1.5 lakh.
The incident has led to a fresh alert from the Income Tax Department, which has warned that fraudsters are exploiting concerns around refund delays.
In a post on X, the department urged taxpayers not to share one-time passwords, bank details or personal information in response to unsolicited messages. It warned that fake communications may claim a refund or demand urgent action to push people into clicking suspicious links. Taxpayers have been advised to verify all communications only through the official portal and to report suspicious messages to the designated email addresses mentioned in the advisory.
WHAT THE ADVISORY HIGHLIGHTS
The department has clearly stated that it does not ask for OTPs, passwords or bank details through SMS links or random emails. It has asked taxpayers to stay alert against fake emails, calls or text messages pretending to be official communication.
Any suspicious message should be verified directly on the official website by typing the address into the browser, rather than clicking on embedded links.
WHY TAXPAYERS ARE GETTING TRAPPED
Refund-related messages naturally attract attention. Words such as “refund delay”, “final reminder” or warnings about cancellation create fear and urgency.
Scammers deliberately use strong and threatening language to push people into acting without thinking. Their aim is simple, i.e., creating panic and obtaining confidential information.
STAY ALERT DURING REFUND SEASON
Refund delays can occur due to verification procedures. However, urgent links demanding OTPs or bank details are not part of the official process.
If a message pressures you to respond immediately or threatens loss of your refund, treat it as a red flag. Taking a few extra minutes to verify the source can save you from serious financial loss.
In other words, in refund season, a little caution can prevent a big financial loss. Taking a moment to verify can protect both your money and your peace of mind.
