In today’s digital age, the PAN card is no longer just a simple document for tax filing or opening a bank account. It has become a form of identification without which many important financial processes are impossible. The PAN card has become essential for more than half of financial transactions, such as large transactions, loan approvals, credit card applications, property purchases, and various types of investments. But an important question remains: Is your PAN card safe and secure?

Over the past few years, numerous cases have surfaced where people were unaware that their PAN card details were being misused by another person or entity. Therefore, it is crucial to know where your PAN card has been used and what financial activities are linked to it.

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How to find out where your PAN is linked

The most reliable way to verify the use of a PAN card is through a credit report. The country’s major credit bureaus, such as CIBIL, Experian, Equifax, and CRIF High Mark, maintain a complete history of all loans, credit cards, and other credit activities issued in your name. You can visit any of these websites and enter your PAN number and mobile number to obtain a free or paid credit report. This report reveals which banks have issued loans or credit in your name, when, and for how much.

How to Check a Credit Report from Home

The process of obtaining a credit report is quite simple. First, visit the website of a reputable credit bureau, such as CIBIL, Experian, or Equifax. Select the option to check your free credit score or credit report and enter information such as your name, date of birth, address, and PAN number. Some websites offer free reports, while others charge a nominal fee. Once the report is generated, you can see on the screen where your PAN has been used and whether there are any suspicious transactions.

What to do if your PAN is misused

If you notice any loan, credit card, or other activity in your credit report that is unrelated to you, immediately contact the relevant bank or institution. It’s also important to file a complaint on the cybercrime portal or file an FIR at the nearest police station. It’s also in your best interest to report this to the Income Tax Department to prevent any potential future losses. It’s also important to check your credit report regularly.

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Check Aadhaar-PAN Link Status

As per government regulations, linking your PAN and Aadhaar has been made mandatory. To check the status, go to the Income Tax e-filing portal and enter your PAN and Aadhaar number. Clicking on “View Link Aadhaar Status” will display a screen to confirm whether your PAN is linked to Aadhaar. Failure to do so can hinder many financial transactions and even deactivate your PAN card.