Images: Shutterstock
Source: Bank of Baroda
With over 86% Indian households being connected to the internet, cyber fraud incidents have seen a concerning surge, rising from 10.29 lakh in 2022 to 22.68 lakh in 2024.
Data: PIB
Here are five types of cyber scams that customers should be aware of.
Digital arrest scam
Scammers impersonate police officers and accuse individuals of being involved in crimes, threatening them with "digital arrest".
People should note that police do not conduct digital arrests. If you receive such a call, disconnect immediately and report the incident.
Fake parcel or bill payment scam
Fraudsters claim that your parcel is stuck at customs and that you may face arrest. They may also share fake bill payment links.
Avoid clicking on suspicious links; instead, report such attempts.
Family member arrest scam
Using AI-generated voice cloning, fraudsters may mimic the voice of someone known and demand money, claiming that a relative is about to be arrested.
Before acting on such requests, verify the information with your family members.
Stock trading or investment scam
Social media advertisements promising unusually high returns may direct users to fake investment platforms or fraudulent links.
Investors should avoid participating in unverified schemes and investment opportunities.
Faster tax refund scam
Fraudsters pose as tax officials and ask for a user’s bank account details on the pretext of expediting tax refunds.
Consumers should note that tax authorities generally do not seek such information over calls, messages, or emails for processing refunds.
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