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The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has rolled out a new QR code-based verification system for its summons in a bid to protect citizens from fraudsters impersonating its officers. The move according to the official ED statement, is designed to help individuals confirm the authenticity of summons and prevent scams involving fake notices and 'digital arrest' scams.

Under the new system, every summons generated by the ED will carry a unique QR code and passcode that can be used to verify its legitimacy. Each document will also bear the issuing officer's signature, official stamp, email address and contact number.

Recipients can check the summons either by scanning the QR code or by entering the details on the ED's official website. Verification will be available 24 hours after issuance, excluding weekends and public holidays. Only in exceptional cases will summons be issued outside this system. The ED has designated Assistant Director Rahul Verma as the point of contact at its New Delhi headquarters for verification-related queries. He can be reached via email at adinv2-ed@gov.in or on 011-23339172.

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The move follows a spate of cases where conmen posed as ED officials, issuing forged summons and fake arrest orders to extort money. All arrests under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, are made physically after due procedure, and that there is "no concept of digital or online arrests". "Arrests made by ED are done after following due procedure and are done physically in person. There is no concept of digital arrest or online arrest under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002,".

Officials said these scams often use documents that closely resemble genuine ED summons, making it difficult for individuals to tell them apart. The new digital verification process aims to eliminate this risk by allowing instant authentication.

The ED urged citizens "not to fall prey to fraudsters impersonating Enforcement Directorate officers" and to report any suspicious communication to local police or cybercrime units.

Summons are typically issued under Section 50(2) of the PMLA, 2002, and Section 37 of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), 1999. The new system, officials said, ensures that all such documents can be verified quickly, adding an additional layer of security for the public.

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Ankit Kumar is a Senior Sub Editor at Zee Business. He covers international affairs, politics, climate change, business, finance and global elections. With experience across digital med ...LATEST NEWSBy accepting cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts.