It has been observed that some fraudulent messages are being circulated on WhatsApp, Email and SMS, claiming to process GST refund. It clearly shows that some miscreants have started to take undue advantage of Covid-19 crisis, by sending out fake messages with phishing links. One such link takes to a portal claimed to have been developed by GSTN. The same is fake and Government has notified only www.gst.gov.in as the common portal, under the GST Laws.

Through such links, the taxpayers are asked to fill important information such as Personal details, Address, Refund Details and KYC Verification, which may not just cause financial losses to the taxpayer but also enable such unscrupulous elements to steal their personal data for mala fide intentions.

Here are some Do’s and Don’ts regarding Refund applications:

A. Do’s:

  • Use only GST portal www.gst.gov.in for claiming refunds
  • For any information on claiming GST refund, checking status of the refund application read https://www.gst.gov.in/help/refund
  • Remember that GST Network never call detailed personal information and refund details on email, WhatsApp or SMS
  • Stay updated with News & Update section of www.gst.gov.in for any official and authorized information
  • In case of any query of confusion, please call GST helpdesk 1800-103-4786.

B. Don’ts:

  • Do not reply to any message claiming to process GST refunds
  • Do not open any link or attachment in the message
  • Never fill any personal detail and other information on any platform other than GST portal for claiming refunds
  • Do not call at the number mentioned in the message
  • Do not trust information from any source other than the GST portal which uses similar portal names and interface


(Also read: Centre releases Rs.36,400 crore as GST compensation to States)


Please be informed that GST refunds can be claimed through GST portal www.gst.gov.in only. Any other source, portal with similar interface, message claiming to process GST refunds are fraudulent. Please also note that GST Network does not ask personal information, refund details and KYC verification through email, WhatsApp or SMS or through any other website.

Taxpayers are advised to remain cautious against such messages and use GST portal www.gst.gov.in for refund application or any other GST related activity.


(Also read: Update on issue of GST late fee for the period August 2017 to January 2020)

(Also read: EPFO Pensioners to get Enhanced Pension)

(Also read: More than 150 FAQs on Provident Fund to solve all doubts)

(Also read: Free Instant PAN through Aadhaar based e-KYC launched by Finance Minister)

(Also read: PM Modi launches technology platform CHAMPIONS to empower MSMEs)