What is Fake DGFT Export License and Incentive Fraud?

Dangerous: Fake DGFT Export License and Incentive Fraud is a confirmed scam in India. Beware of fake DGFT export license scams targeting Indian businesses. Learn red flags, prevention tips and report at cybercrime.gov.in or call 1930.

How to protect yourself from Fake DGFT Export License and Incentive Fraud?

Verify any DGFT-related communication by contacting DGFT directly via their official website or helpline. Do not share your IEC code, Digital Signature Certificates, Aadhaar details, or bank information with unknown callers or messages. Report suspicious calls, messages, or emails claiming to offer DGFT licenses or export incentives at cybercrime.gov.in. Call 1930 immediately if you suspect you are a target or victim of Fake DGFT Export License and Incentive Fraud.

Fake DGFT Export License and Incentive Fraud

नकली डीजीएफटी निर्यात लाइसेंस और प्रोत्साहन धोखाधड़ी

INDIA — By BharatSecure Threat Intelligence Team · Updated Apr 20, 2026

Verdict: Dangerous | Risk Score: 9/10 | Severity: MEDIUM

Category: Government

How Fake DGFT Export License and Incentive Fraud Works

Step 1: Fraudsters misappropriate legitimate Importer-Exporter Codes (IECs) and export credentials from authentic businesses
Step 2: Create fake export documentation and manipulate customs records to fabricate export transactions
Step 3: Forge Digital Signature Certificates to gain unauthorized access to export incentive schemes like RoSCTL and DFIA
Step 4: Transfer fraudulent licenses to fictitious shell companies and encash government export benefits worth crores

How This Scam Works — Detailed Explanation

In India, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issues export licenses and incentives to support exporters, especially small and medium businesses. Scammers exploit this trusted system by offering fake DGFT export licenses or promising export incentives that do not exist. They usually contact businesses through WhatsApp, phone calls, or emails pretending to be DGFT officials or authorized agents. These fraudsters claim they can get your export license processed quickly or help you receive special incentives, often at a fee.

The scam begins when the fraudsters ask for sensitive information like the Importer Exporter Code (IEC), Digital Signature Certificate (DSC), or Aadhaar details. Sometimes, they also request uploading documents on unofficial websites or share links claiming to be DGFT portals. They may offer to bypass normal DGFT verification procedures, making the offer appear faster and easier for exporters. Fraudsters often use persuasive language promising guaranteed export benefits, which is illegal and impossible in real government processes.

Once they obtain your IEC and DSC or get you to pay a fee via UPI or bank transfer, victims may realize their export license is fake, or their incentives never arrive. Worse, scammers sometimes manipulate license documents and transfer licenses to unknown parties causing legal troubles. Victims may face loss of money, damage to business credibility, or even legal action if their documentation is misused. Scammers exploit the trust Indian exporters place in official government bodies and the lack of awareness around DGFT’s genuine processes.

Many victims report that these scammers keep pushing for more payments or additional documents and often disappear once they’ve collected enough money. The impact is severe—businesses lose money and access to export opportunities. It is important for Indian exporters to recognize the signs of this scam, avoid sharing critical information, and verify any communication through official DGFT channels. Reporting such frauds promptly is essential to help authorities track scammers operating in India.

Who Does Fake DGFT Export License and Incentive Fraud Target?

Export businesses, DGFT license holders, customs brokers, and small-medium exporters across India

Red Flags — How to Identify Fake DGFT Export License and Incentive Fraud

Unsolicited offers for DGFT license processing or export incentives
Requests for sharing IEC codes or Digital Signature Certificates
Promises of guaranteed export benefits without proper documentation
Unusual requests to transfer licenses to unknown entities
Offers to bypass normal DGFT verification procedures

What To Do If You Encounter Fake DGFT Export License and Incentive Fraud

Verify any DGFT-related communication by contacting DGFT directly via their official website or helpline.
Do not share your IEC code, Digital Signature Certificates, Aadhaar details, or bank information with unknown callers or messages.
Report suspicious calls, messages, or emails claiming to offer DGFT licenses or export incentives at cybercrime.gov.in.
Call 1930 immediately if you suspect you are a target or victim of Fake DGFT Export License and Incentive Fraud.
Inform your bank immediately if you have made any UPI or NEFT/RTGS payments related to such fraudulent offers.

How to Report Fake DGFT Export License and Incentive Fraud in India

Call 1930 — National Cyber Crime Helpline (24x7)
File a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in
Contact your bank immediately if money was lost
Call RBI helpline: 14440 for banking fraud

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Fake DGFT Export License and Incentive Fraud?: Dangerous: Fake DGFT Export License and Incentive Fraud is a confirmed scam in India. Beware of fake DGFT export license scams targeting Indian businesses. Learn red flags, prevention tips and report at cybercrime.gov.in or call 1930.
How does Fake DGFT Export License and Incentive Fraud work?: Step 1: Fraudsters misappropriate legitimate Importer-Exporter Codes (IECs) and export credentials from authentic businesses Step 2: Create fake export documentation and manipulate customs records to fabricate export transactions Step 3: Forge Digital Signature Certificates to gain unauthorized access to export incentive schemes like RoSCTL and DFIA Step 4: Transfer fraudulent licenses to fictitious shell companies and encash government export benefits worth crores
How to protect yourself from Fake DGFT Export License and Incentive Fraud?: Verify any DGFT-related communication by contacting DGFT directly via their official website or helpline. Do not share your IEC code, Digital Signature Certificates, Aadhaar details, or bank information with unknown callers or messages. Report suspicious calls, messages, or emails claiming to offer DGFT licenses or export incentives at cybercrime.gov.in. Call 1930 immediately if you suspect you are a target or victim of Fake DGFT Export License and Incentive Fraud.
How to report Fake DGFT Export License and Incentive Fraud in India?: Report to cybercrime.gov.in or call 1930 (National Cyber Crime Helpline). You can also contact your local police station's cyber cell.

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