Financial fraud and abuse of crucial papers such as the Permanent Account Number (PAN) card remain an issue. Cybercriminals take advantage of possibilities such as providing PAN details while ordering flights or train tickets, which allows them to obtain your PAN information easily.

The Income Tax Department of India issues the PAN card. It acts as a unique identification for people, businesses, and other organizations subject to income tax. It is a laminated card that may be applied for by people or distributed by the department without an application.

Important Tips To Ensure The Safety Of Your PAN Card

1. Avoid submitting your PAN number on random websites; instead, verify their authenticity. Choose less susceptible ID data such as a driver’s license or a voter ID.

2. Check your financial statements, including bank and credit card transactions, on a regular basis for any unusual or unauthorized activity. Keep an eye out for unusual transactions.

3. Be cautious when providing PAN photocopies, and only do so with genuine persons or businesses. Keep note of where you submit the photocopies and sign them with the date.

4. Log on to the official website with your PAN card data to check your Income Tax Department account. Examine your tax returns for any anomalies or illegal adjustments, such as those on Form 26AS.

5. Request a copy of your credit report from a credit bureau such as CIBIL. Check it carefully for any unauthorized accounts or credit applications linked to your PAN card. Any anomalies should be reported to the credit bureau as soon as possible.

Steps To Check If Your PAN Card Has Been Misused

By simply creating credit ratings, anyone may determine whether their PAN number has been exploited.
They may check to see whether any loans have been disbursed in their name using CIBIL, Equifax, Experian, or CRIF High Mark.
You may also view your financial reports on fintech sites like Paytm or Bank Bazaar.
To find out if someone else has taken a loan on your PAN card, the user must provide your personal data such as name, date of birth, and PAN Card details.