In a stunning development, a poor farmer from Mathura has received an Income Tax notice of Rs 30 crore, revealing a disturbing pattern of PAN card misuse and identity theft in Uttar Pradesh. The incident, now under scrutiny by the tax authorities, highlights a growing cybercrime crisis that is ensnaring unsuspecting individuals in fraudulent activities.
Shocking Tax Notice Sends Ripples Through Rural UP
The Mathura-based farmer, who earns a meager income through small-scale agriculture, was left bewildered upon receiving the high-value tax demand. Preliminary investigations suggest that his Permanent Account Number (PAN)was fraudulently used to create shell firms and conduct large financial transactions without his knowledge.
This case is not an isolated incident. Reports indicate that several daily wage earners, farmers, and small traders across UP have received similar notices, exposing a systemic failure in data protection and rampant exploitation of Aadhaar and PAN cards.
Cyber Fraud on the Rise: Aadhaar, PAN Misuse Under Spotlight
Cyber experts and legal professionals warn of a surge in digital identity theft, especially in rural areas where digital literacy is low. Fraudsters reportedly obtain copies of Aadhaar and PAN cards through fake job offers, loan schemes, or under the pretext of government benefits. These credentials are then used to open bank accounts, apply for GST registrations, and conduct bogus business operations, leaving victims in legal and financial turmoil.
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