Ten Common Scams to Watch Out For: Stay Alert and Protect Yourself
One fine day, I was in school preparing for class as usual. Around 9 am, I received a call on my mobile phone. A gentleman on the other end mentioned my name and phone number, asking if I had booked a parcel. I replied no. He then claimed to be from Lucknow Customs, informing me that a parcel containing illegal items from drugs to guns and bullets had been booked under my name using my Aadhar card number. The destination was said to be in Myanmar, and the police at Lucknow Airport were searching for the person who had booked the parcel, with my name now in their diary.
Naturally, such unexpected news would cause panic and fear, and I was no exception. Despite my anxiety, I engaged the caller in conversation, asking for details such as where the parcel was booked, who was receiving it, and where to contact if needed. It wasn’t until I asked for my Aadhar number that the caller began to falter, and the call abruptly ended. When I tried calling back, the number was invalid. I realized it was a scam and thankfully managed to escape the trap.
After researching similar scams online, I decided to write this article to help others protect themselves.
In the age of rapid digital expansion, scammers are more cunning than ever, using increasingly sophisticated methods to deceive and steal from unsuspecting victims. From impersonating authorities to offering false promises of quick wealth, they prey on our fears, desires, and lack of awareness. While anyone can be a target, middle-aged and elderly individuals are particularly vulnerable due to limited exposure to newer technologies. However, by staying informed and alert, we can outsmart these fraudsters. Here’s a detailed guide on 10 common scams and how you can protect yourself:
1. TRAI Phone Scam
In this scam, fraudsters impersonate officials from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), claiming your mobile number is involved in illegal activities. They threaten to suspend your services unless you provide personal information or pay a fine.
- Reality Check: TRAI does not suspend phone services. Only telecom companies have that authority.
- Tip: Hang up immediately and avoid sharing personal details. Always contact your service provider directly for any concerns.
2. Parcel Stuck at Customs
Scammers claim that a parcel addressed to you, containing contraband or undeclared items, has been intercepted by customs officials. They demand payment to release the package or prevent legal action.
- Action: If you haven’t ordered anything or are unsure about the legitimacy of the call, hang up and report the number to the authorities.
- Tip: Customs or courier services will not ask for money over the phone. Verify with the official postal service.
3. Digital Arrest Threat
A frightening tactic used by fraudsters involves impersonating police officers and threatening digital arrest or online interrogation, usually related to supposed cyber-crimes. The aim is to pressure you into paying a “fine” to avoid arrest.
- Reality Check: Law enforcement agencies do not conduct arrests via phone or online platforms.
- Tip: Stay calm, refuse to engage, and contact your local police for verification.
4. Family Member Arrested
In a more emotionally manipulative scam, fraudsters claim that a relative or close family member is in trouble with the law and will be arrested unless you pay a certain amount. The urgency and emotional tone of the scam make victims panic and act without thinking.
- Action: Always contact your family members directly before taking any steps.
- Tip: Scammers often count on fear to manipulate victims. Stay calm and verify the situation before acting.
5. Get Rich Quick Trading Schemes
Social media is flooded with enticing ads that promise sky-high returns from stock market investments or cryptocurrency trading. Scammers use these fake success stories to lure people into sending money or investing in fraudulent platforms.
- Reality Check: Genuine investments come with risks, and no legitimate opportunity guarantees high returns in a short time.
- Tip: Conduct thorough research before investing. If something sounds too good to be true, it likely is.
6. Easy Tasks for Big Rewards
Scammers offer large payments for performing simple tasks, such as liking videos, sharing content, or filling out surveys. However, once you start, they ask you to make an “investment” to proceed to the next level of rewards.
- Reality Check: Legitimate companies do not ask for money in exchange for task-based rewards.
- Tip: Avoid offers that promise easy money, and never send money upfront for tasks.
7. Fake Credit Card Issued in Your Name
Scammers pose as bank executives or customer service representatives and inform you that a credit card has been issued in your name, with large transactions already made. They then ask for your personal and financial details to “cancel” the card.
- Action: Contact your bank directly through official channels to verify the claim.
- Tip: Never share your personal or financial details with unknown callers.
8. Mistaken Money Transfer
This scam involves a caller claiming they accidentally transferred money to your account. They will then ask you to return the money, often using convincing but fake transaction screenshots.
- Action: Always check your bank statement or online account before making any refunds.
- Tip: If you receive unexpected money, report it to your bank immediately to verify its source.
9. KYC Expired
You may receive an urgent message claiming your KYC (Know Your Customer) documentation has expired, with a link provided to update it. Clicking the link can lead to phishing websites that steal your information.
- Reality Check: Banks do not request KYC updates via SMS or unsolicited links. All KYC updates are done in person or through official banking apps.
- Tip: Always visit your bank’s website directly or contact them to update any details.
10. Fake Tax Refund
In this scam, fraudsters pose as tax officials, claiming you’re entitled to a generous refund. They ask for your bank account details to deposit the amount, but instead use this information to steal from you.
- Reality Check: Tax departments already have your banking details and will never ask for them over the phone or email.
- Tip: If you receive such a call or message, verify directly with the income tax department’s official website or office.
How to Stay Safe
- Verify before acting: Always double-check any claim or offer, especially those that ask for personal or financial information.
- Don’t click suspicious links: Scammers often use fake links to phishing websites. If in doubt, avoid clicking and delete the message.
- Confirm transactions with your bank: If you receive unexpected alerts or calls, always contact your bank directly using official channels.
- Report suspicious activity: If you encounter any suspicious calls or messages, report them immediately to the authorities.
- Be wary of high-return promises: Genuine investments take time and research; avoid any schemes promising quick and easy wealth.
- Update KYC in person: Never update your KYC information through unsolicited messages or third-party apps.
- Safeguard your personal details: Protect your personal information at all times. Do not share bank details, passwords, or OTPs over the phone.
Where to Report Scams
- National Consumer Helpline: 1800-11-4000 (in India)
- Cyber Crime Reporting Portal: cybercrime.gov.in (India)
- Your Local Police Station: For immediate assistance, visit your nearest police station.
A Final Word
Scams are a growing menace in today’s digital world, with fraudsters becoming more sophisticated and creative in their attempts to deceive. While technology provides us with unprecedented access to information and opportunities, it also opens new doors for scams. By staying vigilant, informed, and cautious, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to these fraudulent schemes. Always trust your instincts, take the time to verify claims, and remember that if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Stay safe, stay informed, and spread the word to help others avoid falling prey to scams.
Staying informed is the best defence against scammers. Keep an eye out for these common scams, stay vigilant, and always think twice before sharing sensitive information or making financial decisions. Stay informed, stay safe! One more thing, if you happen to fall into the trap of accepting a call on the phone, please tell them – “I am calling you back as I am in a noisy place and cannot hear you properly,” and disconnect the call. Don’t panic, take some time, and then call back with your questions. Firstly, the call will likely not go through as most of these scammer numbers cannot be called back. Secondly, they will not answer any call, even if it does connect.
Note: Information was collected from various websites on the Internet related to cybercrime and cyber scams.