On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Money Safety
Phone scams in India have grown increasingly sophisticated, targeting unsuspecting individuals to steal money, personal information, or access to sensitive accounts. These scams often involve fraudsters pretending to be government officials, bank representatives, or customer care agents. Knowing how these scams operate and recognizing the red flags can help you protect yourself.
Sometimes, they claim your account will be "frozen" unless you comply.
Red Flags:
Requests for sensitive information that banks never ask for over the phone.
Example Script:
"Hello, I’m calling from SBI. Your debit card will be deactivated unless you update your KYC. Share your OTP now."
How to Stay Safe:
They claim your KYC (Know Your Customer) verification is incomplete and ask you to provide personal information or click on malicious links.
Red Flags:
Requests for Aadhaar, PAN, or OTPs.
Example Script:
"This is a final reminder to update your KYC for Paytm. Please share your Aadhaar and PAN details now to avoid account suspension."
How to Stay Safe:
Victims are asked to pay "processing fees," taxes, or other charges to claim the prize.
Red Flags:
Requests for upfront payments or personal information.
Example Script:
"Congratulations! You’ve won25 lakh in the KBC Lucky Draw. To claim your prize, pay5,000 as processing fees now."
How to Stay Safe:
They claim there’s an issue with your account or device and ask for remote access or personal information.
Red Flags:
Requests for OTPs, bank details, or payments.
Example Script:
"Your Amazon account has been compromised. To secure it, download AnyDesk and follow my instructions."
How to Stay Safe:
Victims are asked to pay upfront fees for processing, or they are tricked into fraudulent investments.
Red Flags:
Requests for Aadhaar, PAN, or advance payments.
Example Script:
"Get a1 lakh loan approved instantly! No paperwork. Just send2,000 for processing fees."
How to Stay Safe:
Often used on platforms like WhatsApp or during fake product sales.
Red Flags:
Claims of "instant refunds" or "security deposits" via QR codes.
Example Script:
"I’m transferring2,000 for the product. Please scan this QR code to receive the money."
How to Stay Safe:
They may also impersonate friends or family members in distress, asking for money.
Red Flags:
Emotional pleas from "family" without verifiable proof of identity.
Example Script:
"This is the Income Tax Department. You have unpaid taxes of50,000. Pay now or face legal action."
How to Stay Safe:
Once they gain control of your number, they can access your bank accounts or other accounts linked to your phone.
Red Flags:
Unsolicited calls asking for personal or SIM-related details.
How to Stay Safe:
They demand payment in advance for products that are never delivered.
Red Flags:
Sellers insisting on payment before delivery.
Example Script:
"Selling a brand-new iPhone for10,000. Pay via UPI now to confirm your order."
How to Stay Safe:
They pressure victims to donate via UPI or bank transfers to fake accounts.
Red Flags:
High-pressure tactics or emotional manipulation.
Example Script:
"Help COVID-19 relief efforts. Donate500 to [fake UPI ID] to save lives."
How to Stay Safe:
Avoid sharing OTPs, PINs, CVVs, Aadhaar, or PAN over the phone.
Verify Caller Identity:
Hang up and call the organization’s official number to confirm the caller’s claims.
Avoid Clicking Links:
Don’t click on links sent via SMS or WhatsApp unless verified.
Use Call Blocking Apps:
Apps like Truecaller can help identify spam or fraud calls.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication:
Protect your online accounts with 2FA for an added layer of security.
Be Skeptical of "Urgent" Calls:
Scammers often create a false sense of urgency. Take time to verify the situation.
Report Suspicious Calls:
Report fraudulent transactions immediately to block your account.
File a Police Complaint:
Report the scam at your nearest police station or via the cybercrime portal.
Change Passwords:
Update passwords for all accounts linked to your phone or email.
Educate Others:
Phone scams in India rely on deception, urgency, and lack of awareness. By staying vigilant, verifying callers, and never sharing sensitive information, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim. Stay alert, stay safe!
