We have recently been alerted to a scam targeting notaries, where fraudulent emails are being sent out using PAN's name and address. These emails solicit samples of notarized documents, likely aiming to steal notary stamp images for fraudulent activities. Please stay aware and do not respond to such requests. Protect your notary stamp and report any suspicious emails immediately.

Here are some helpful tips for recognizing legitimate versus fraudulent emails:
 

• Check the Sender's Email Address: Verify the sender's email address carefully. Scammers often use addresses that look similar to legitimate ones but may have slight variations.
• Look for Spelling and Grammar Mistakes: Legitimate organizations typically proofread their communications. Frequent spelling and grammatical errors can be a red flag.
• Beware of Urgent or Threatening Language: Scammers often use urgent language to pressure you into taking immediate action. Legitimate companies usually don't threaten or rush you.
• Check for Generic Greetings: Legitimate emails often address you by name, while fraudulent ones may use generic greetings like "Dear Customer."
• Verify Links Before Clicking: Hover over any links to see the actual URL. Fraudulent emails may contain links that lead to malicious websites.
• Be Cautious with Attachments: Be wary of opening attachments from unknown senders, as they may contain malware.
• Look for Official Logos and Branding: Check if the email includes official branding and logos, but be aware that scammers can sometimes mimic these elements.
• Contact the Organization Directly: If in doubt, contact the organization directly using contact information from their official website, not the information provided in the email.
• Check for Unusual Requests: Legitimate companies will not ask for sensitive information, such as passwords or social security numbers, via email.
• Your Instincts: If something feels off about the email, it's better to err on the side of caution and investigate further before taking any action.