With the increasing trend of digital transactions in India, cases of online fraud are also increasing rapidly. Cyber criminals have become smarter than before and are adopting new methods to target people. The most dangerous among these are scam calls, which are often made from abroad through VoIP to any number in India. So, let us tell you what is the first thing you should do if you get a scam call, otherwise you may lose your life savings.
How do fraudsters target people?
Before making a call, cyber fraudsters collect some basic information about the victim. During the conversation, they try to understand whether the person lives alone, where his family is, and what his mental state is like. After that, they threaten the victim by posing as government representatives, police officers or court officers. Fraudsters sometimes even show fake courtrooms through video calls. They claim that the victim’s number is being used in cases like money laundering. Then, citing the court order, they ask the victim to deposit the money in RBI or any other government account. They also threaten that if the victim tells anyone, the consequences will be even worse.
One in ten people becomes a victim
Cyber fraudsters make similar calls to many people. While 8 or 9 out of 10 people manage to avoid scams due to their awareness, one person becomes a victim of fraud out of fear. That is why it is very important to report such scam calls timely.
How can Sanchar Saathi app prevent fraud?
If three or more people report a suspicious number on the Sanchar Saathi app, that number is automatically blocked. With more complaints, the device and IMEI associated with that number may also be blocked. If people report in time, the next potential victim can be saved. Nowadays, phishing scams, fake investment schemes, social media scams and UPI fraud are the most common. Fraudsters impersonate government agencies or companies through emails, messages, WhatsApp or calls and extort personal details and money from people.
What to do if you become a victim of a scam?
If you lose money to a scam, the first thing to do is completely cut off all contact with the scammer. Then, immediately inform your bank or payment app and block your account. Also, change all your passwords and secure your cards. If fraud occurs, the first step is to lodge a complaint with the cyber cell. After this you can lodge a complaint with the nearest cybercrime cell or through the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal. The sooner you report the incident, the better your chances of getting your money back.
