Enforcement Directorate Introduces QR Code Summons to Prevent ‘Special 26’-Style Fake Notices

In a significant move to fight against the rising trend of fraudulent summonses issued by online scammers, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has announced the rollout of QR code-based summons supported by a two-step verification system. This digital security upgrade aims to help individuals verify the authenticity of notices issued under Section 37 of the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 (FEMA) and Section 50(2) of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA).

The decision follows a series of incidents where cybercriminals sent fake ED summonses resembling genuine ones to extort money or mislead individuals. These fraudulent acts echo the premise of the Bollywood movie Special 26, where impostors posed as CBI officers and conducted fake raids on politicians and business tycoons.

To strengthen transparency and restore public confidence, the ED has now adopted a system-generated summons mechanism. Each summons will contain a QR code and a unique passcode printed at the bottom for easy verification. Officials have been directed to use only this digital system—except in rare cases—to issue legitimate summonses.

Every system-generated document will include the signature and stamp of the issuing officer, along with their official email ID and contact number to enable direct correspondence. This measure aims to create a secure, trackable, and easily verifiable framework for all communications.

How to Verify an ED Summons

The ED has outlined two methods for confirming the authenticity of a summons:

• 1. QR Code Verification:
  • Scan the QR code printed on the summons using any QR scanner or smartphone camera.
  • The scan redirects you to the ED’s official website.
  • Enter the unique passcode printed on the summons.
  • If verified, the system will display details such as the summoned person’s name, the officer’s name and designation, and the date of issue.
• 2. Manual Verification via Website:
  • Visit the ED’s official website and click on the ‘Verify Your Summons’ tab.
  • Enter the Summons Number (displayed at the top of the document) and the unique passcode (at the bottom).
  • Matching details will appear for confirmation of authenticity.

Verification can be performed within 24 hours of the summons being issued, excluding weekends and public holidays. In exceptional circumstances where the system-generated summons is unavailable, recipients are encouraged to verify authenticity by contacting the designated point of contact listed on the document through phone or official email.

ED Issues Warning Against Online Scams and ‘Digital Arrests’

The Enforcement Directorate has also cautioned the public against online scams that use fake digital summons or “digital arrest” tactics. The agency clarified that all ED arrests are made physically and only after following due legal procedure. The Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 does not recognize any form of digital or online arrest.

Reiterating its commitment to combating financial crimes and cyber Fraud, the ED urged citizens to remain vigilant and to verify all summonses before responding. The agency emphasized that individuals should never trust messages, calls, or emails from people impersonating ED officers, and must always rely on official verification channels.

By integrating QR code technology with a two-step verification process, the Enforcement Directorate aims to ensure greater transparency, boost public confidence, and put an end to ‘Special 26’-style scams that exploit citizens through fake legal notices.