Be careful with phone numbers sourced online

Representation pic

A routine attempt to return a faulty electric kettle turned into a cyber fraud for a security guard who lost all his savings after calling a customer-care number found through an online search.

A slew of events transpired after calling that number, with the guard being asked to reveal certain details, his phone going dark after he called the number and then, being lured to reveal his PIN, etc. This should caution people not to call random helplines.

The authentic website will have the correct helpline. Googling and finding helpline numbers is risky. While they may be correct at times, it is always vital that you check by calling through a landline at first. If that is unavailable, call through mobile but do not reveal any financial information.

If you think the person at the other end is asking strange questions that have little to do with the product/service needed, or do not apply to the reason you called, it is better to simply hang up and avoid a prolonged conversation with that person.

Always remember the cyber con has particular patterns he plays on. He rushes the target through, by some questions and quick answers. He confuses the target with some inane information overload.

He tries to sound very important, but uses some jargon which may sound impressive but is basically meaningless. He creates a sense of urgency. He may try to intimidate if one does not part with the information. This is a pattern also designed to make patience, scepticism, and better sense take a backseat.

The google and find a helpline number is fertile ground for cyber scamming.