How to Find If GST is Original or Fake?
GST or Goods and Services Tax is a critical part of the Indian taxation system. Every registered business must have a GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number). However, in recent years, there has been a rise in fake GST numbers being used by fraudsters to deceive customers.
Whether you are a customer, a business partner, or an aspiring GST Suvidha Kendra operator, it’s important to know how to verify if a GST number is real or fake. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process in simple steps and also introduce you to EffizentSeele, a platform that helps you with GST compliance and verification.
What is a GSTIN?
GSTIN (Goods and Services Tax Identification Number) is a 15-digit unique number assigned to businesses registered under GST in India.
Here’s how it is structured:
| Part | Description | Example |
| First 2 digits | State code | 27 for Maharashtra |
| Next 10 digits | PAN of the business | ABCDE1234F |
| 13th digit | Entity number under the same PAN | 1 (first registration) |
| 14th digit | Alphabet Z (default) | Z |
| 15th digit | Check code (alphanumeric) | 5 |
Why It’s Important to Verify GST Numbers
- Avoid fake invoices and fraudulent vendors
- Ensure input tax credit (ITC) is valid
- Protect yourself from tax-related legal issues
- Build trust and transparency with customers and partners
How to Check If a GST Number is Original
Method 1: Using the Official GST Portal
Step-by-step guide:
- Visit the official GST portal: https://www.gst.gov.in
- Click on “Search Taxpayer” > “Search by GSTIN/UIN”
- Enter the 15-digit GST number
- Enter the CAPTCHA code and click “Search”
- You will see details like:
- Legal name of the business
- State and jurisdiction
- Registration status (Active/Inactive)
- Type of taxpayer (Regular/Composition, etc.)
If the GST number is fake:
- It will show “No record found.”
- Or status may be “Cancelled” or “Suspended”
Facts About Fake GSTINs
- Over 12,000+ fake GST registrations were detected by the Indian government in 2023 during special drives.
- Fraudsters use fake GST numbers on bills to look legitimate and collect GST from buyers without remitting it to the government.
- Input Tax Credit (ITC) claimed through fake GST numbers can be reversed with penalties.
How EffizentSeele Can Help
EffizentSeele.com is a trusted platform offering GST-related services, including registration, return filing, and verification assistance.
Benefits of using EffizentSeele:
- GST verification support for businesses and GST Suvidha Kendras
- User-friendly dashboard for tracking GST status and activities
- Help in identifying fake GST practices in invoices
- Easy-to-use platform for small businesses, freelancers, and entrepreneurs
By registering with EffizentSeele, you not only gain tools to manage your own GST compliance, but you also learn how to identify fake GST registrations and educate your customers.
Table: Checklist to Identify Fake GSTIN
| Criteria | Genuine GSTIN | Fake GSTIN |
| Verified on gst.gov.in | Shows valid data | No data / invalid result |
| Structure of a 15-digit number | Proper format | Incorrect digits or length |
| Registration status | Active or Valid | Suspended / Cancelled |
| PAN and business name match | Yes | No / mismatch |
| Display of GST certificate | Original document | Fake / edited copy |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can anyone check a GST number online?
Yes, GSTIN can be verified by anyone using the government’s official portal without logging in.
Q2. What if I paid GST to a fake number?
You may not be eligible for Input Tax Credit (ITC), and you could face penalties. Always verify before paying.
Q3. Are there apps for GST number verification?
Yes, but the safest way is to use the official GST portal or platforms like EffizentSeele.
Q4. Can a GST number be reused?
No, GSTIN is unique to a specific entity and PAN.
Q5. How do I report a fake GST number?
You can file a complaint on the CBIC portal or contact your jurisdictional officer.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to verify a GST number is essential in today’s digital economy. Whether you’re a business owner, vendor, or service provider, don’t blindly trust every GST number printed on an invoice or website.
EffizentSeele empowers users by offering easy access to tools and guidance for GST compliance, including how to verify the authenticity of a GSTIN. Be alert, stay informed, and always verify before you trust.
Key Takeaways
- GSTIN is a 15-digit unique number and can be verified on gst.gov.in
- Fake GST numbers can lead to penalties and loss of ITC
- Use trusted platforms like EffizentSeele for GST verification and compliance
- Always cross-check GST details before making any transaction