‘The Times of India’ brings you ‘Hack of the Day’ — a new weekday-series of quick, practical solutions to everyday hassles. Each hack is designed to save you time, money or stress, using tools and features within your reach — from government websites to everyday apps. In simple words it is: Simple fixes for smarter living.
Your PAN card is the key identifier for all financial transactions in India. Banks, NBFCs, and digital lenders use it to approve loans and credit cards. Unfortunately, fraudsters can misuse PAN details to take loans without your knowledge.
Regularly checking for unknown loans ensures: * Protection against identity theft * Early detection of fraudulent loans * Better credit score management Earlier reporting noted: Here’s how to check Earlier reporting noted: Get your free credit report from an official bureau: Earlier reporting noted: If you spot an unknown entry, reach out to the bank or lender directly using their official customer care channels.
How to check for loans on your PAN card
PAN-Aadhaar Deadline Nears: How To Link Before December 31 Or Risk Inoperative PAN From Next Year Step 1: Get your credit report The most reliable way to check loans linked to your PAN is through your credit report. Step 2: Use fintech apps Apps like OneScore, Paytm, Cred also allow you to check loans linked to your PAN instantly. Advantages: * Easy mobile access * Alerts for new loans or credit activity * Free credit score tracking Step 3: Check DigiLocker + CKYC data You can also use DigiLocker to access your CKYC (Central KYC) records, which store financial account details linked to your PAN. Step 4: Spot red flags When reviewing your report, watch for: * Loans from lenders you don’t recognize * Accounts opened in cities you’ve never lived in * Sudden drops in your credit score Step 5: Protect your PAN from future frauds * Never share PAN details on unsecured websites or with unknown agents. * Monitor your credit report at least twice a year. * Enable SMS/email alerts for loan approvals with your bank.
Every loan or credit card issued in your name is recorded here. How to access: * Visit official credit bureau websites: CIBIL, Experian, Equifax, CRIF High Mark. * Provide your PAN card number and basic details. * Download your free annual credit report (each bureau offers one free report per year). What to look for: * List of all active loans and credit cards. * Loan amounts, lenders, and repayment status. * Any unfamiliar accounts — these may indicate fraud. They pull data from credit bureaus and present it in a simplified dashboard. This helps verify if any loans or accounts were opened without your consent.