From parcel frauds to fake arrests, scammers in India have been targeting people through several kinds of scams. While scammers target people of all ages, middle-aged and elderly individuals have been seen to be particularly vulnerable.
Recently, a 40-year-old doctor in Noida lost almost Rs 60 lakh in a digital arrest scam. The doctor said she received a call from a supposed police officer who told her that an FIR had been filed against her for sharing porn and also that she had been named in a money laundering case. She was threatened following this and was forced to transfer money to scammers who told her this was her only way out. While this is just one example of how people are falling prey to scams, there are several other ways in which scammers have been targeting people.
Types of Scams
These are some common tricks being used by scammers:
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.
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.
How to Stay Safe
With such scams growing in numbers, it is important to stay vigilant and safe. These are the steps to be taken to ensure one doesn’t fall into the trap:
1. Verify information before acting.
2. Don’t click on 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.
How to Report These Scams
In case one receives any such calls or falls prey to any such tricks by scammers, there are government helplines and portals that help. One can call the National Consumer Helpline (1800-11-4000) or log on to the Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in).
Citizens can also go to their nearest police station to report such frauds.
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