NBR warns of fraud in the name of tax audit

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has warned taxpayers against a fraud ring contacting them from various mobile numbers, falsely claiming their tax files have been selected for audit and demanding money to avoid it.

The NBR said its officials never contact taxpayers over personal mobile numbers or unauthorised channels regarding audits, according to a press release issued yesterday.

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Taxpayers are informed of file selection only through an official written notice.

Any outstanding tax or fee must be paid solely through a government chalan into the state treasury, the NBR said, adding that no official is authorised to receive payment via bKash, Rocket, Nagad, or personal bank accounts.

Taxpayers receiving suspicious calls, texts, or emails should verify with their deputy commissioner of taxes’ office, it said. Those approached by fraudsters posing as NBR officials should immediately inform the police and preserve the caller’s number.

The NBR reiterated its commitment to harassment-free, transparent service and urged taxpayers not to make any payment to such fraudsters.