How to safeguard yourself from phone & digital scams

There are various kinds of scams that are going around. Here is a compilation of some of the top prominent scams and recommended actions you can take.

All scams summarised and shown below. Stay alert.

11 Common Tricks Used by Scammers: Beware and Stay Safe

Scammers target people of all ages, but middle-aged and elderly individuals are particularly vulnerable. Be cautious and aware of these common tricks:

1. TRAI Phone Scam: Fraudsters claim to be from TRAI, stating your mobile number is linked to illegal activities, and services will be suspended.
    – Reality: TRAI doesn’t suspend services; telecom companies do.

2. Parcel Stuck at Customs: Scammers claim a parcel with contraband has been intercepted and demand payment.
    – Action: Disconnect and report the number.

3. Digital Arrest: Fake police officers threaten digital arrest or online interrogation.
    – Reality: Police don’t conduct digital arrests or online interrogations.

4. Family Member Arrested: Scammers claim a relative will be arrested and demand payment.
    – Action: Verify with family members before taking action.

5. Get Rich Quick Trading: Social media ads promise high returns on stock investments.
    – Reality: High-return schemes are likely scams.

6. Easy Tasks for Big Rewards: Scammers offer high sums for simple tasks, then ask for investment.
    – Reality: Easy money schemes are scams.

7. Credit Card Issued in Your Name: Fake executives confirm large transactions on bogus credit cards.
    – Action: Check with your bank.

8. Mistaken Money Transfer: Scammers claim incorrect transactions and ask for refunds.
    – Action: Verify transactions with your bank. Even if funds have come in to your account, do not use UPI to send money back. Do it through your bank.

9. KYC Expired: Scammers ask for KYC updates via links.
    – Reality: Banks require in-person KYC updates.

10. Generous Tax Refund: Fraudsters pose as tax officials, asking for bank details.
    – Reality: Tax departments already have bank details and communicate directly.

11. OTP Scam: Scammers call asking for OTP help. Sharing that your phone number was theirs previously, and is associated with their Govt issued ID cards. Will ask for OTP verification help.
– Reality: Do not engage. Call you cyber cell (Bangalore – 1930) and report

Stay Safe:

1. Verify information before acting.
2. Don’t click suspicious links.
3. Confirm transactions with banks.
4. Report suspicious calls/numbers.
5. Be cautious of high-return schemes.
6. Update KYC in-person.
7. Don’t share personal/bank details.

Report Scams:

1. National Consumer Helpline (1800-11-4000)
2. Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in)
3. Chakshu Portal (https://sancharsaathi.gov.in/sfc/)
4. Local Police Station or emergency helpline: 112

Stay informed, stay vigilant!