Overview

• The Enforcement Directorate reports multiple cases of counterfeit summons used for cheating or extortion that closely mimic official documents.
• New summons now carry a QR code and a unique passcode alongside the issuing officer’s signature, official seal, email address and phone number.
• Recipients can confirm authenticity by scanning the QR code or entering the passcode on the ED website, which displays matching summons details.
• Verification activates 24 hours after issuance excluding Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays, with a dedicated email and landline provided for non-system summons.
• The ED rejects any notion of 'digital arrest' under the PMLA, notes that lawful summons are issued under PMLA Section 50(2) and FEMA Section 37, and says headquarters is investigating the scams.