Received ED's summons? Could be a digital arrest scam; here's how you can verify

The agency has introduced a system-generated summons with a QR code and unique passcode

The Enforcement Directorate has issued a set of measures to help citizens verify the authenticity of the summons issued by the law enforcement agency. The move comes amid growing cases of fake summons that resemble actual notices, making citizens vulnerable to cheating and extortion.

“In light of reports of individuals circulating fake summons in the name of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for the purpose of cheating or extortion, the ED (@dir_ed) has introduced measures to help citizens verify authenticity. These fake summons often resemble genuine ED notices, making them difficult to distinguish,” a statement said.

The agency has introduced a system-generated summons with a QR code and unique passcode. It said the summons issued by ED can be verified with the QR code printed on them and also by visiting the official website of the agency.

“The ED does not conduct digital or online arrests. Citizens are advised to remain vigilant and not fall prey to fraudsters impersonating ED officials,” the statement said.

The agency clarified that arrests are only made after following the 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, the agency said.

Verification process

The summons can be verified in two ways- Scan the QR code on the summon and enter the unique passcode printed on the summons. If it’s a genuine summon, its contents including name of the party summoned and other details will be shown on the screen.

Alternatively, the citizens can go to to Verify Your Summons menu on https://enforcementdirectorate.gov.in/. Then enter the summons number and the unique passcode printed on the summon. If the details are correct, its contents including name of the party summoned and other details will reflect on your screen.