WHILE filing season has officially opened for taxpayers to submit their income tax returns the South African Revenue Service (SARS) has warned citizens to be wary of scams.

In a recent statement the service said it had strengthened its digital services and security controls, but cautioned taxpayers to remain vigilant.

Phishing attacks, fake refund schemes, and unregistered tax are some examples of scams that are targeted at taxpayers during filing season.

Also read: Minister reassures Sassa beneficiaries over card transition

“SARS will never request passwords, one-time pins (OTPs), banking PINs, or eFiling login credentials through email, SMS, social media, or telephone. Taxpayers must use only official SARS channels and verify the credentials of any tax practitioner before sharing personal information,” the service said in a statement.

Dr Johnstone Makhubu, the SARS Commissioner, echoed that warning.

“Taxpayers should be cautious of anyone who guarantees a refund or requests sensitive information without proper verification. Protecting personal information remains a shared responsibility between SARS and taxpayers”, he said.

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