Don’t fall prey to tricks of cyber fraudsters

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Cyber criminals are extremely innovative, changing modus operandi, using global crises and events to lure and trap their victims. This edit space has aired opinions on a number of scams, including the recent and widespread digital arrest scam that had so many people trapped and losing their hard-earned money.

One constant amongst these deception patterns has been the customer care number trap.

When a Kandivli resident searched Google for a customer care number, he believed he was taking the quickest route to customer support. Instead ,it was a fraudster. Quick as a wink, money was siphoned from his bank account. With more of our daily business/transactions conducted digitally, fraudsters are targeting people looking for online help with banks, UPI apps, courier companies, airlines, hotels, and e-commerce platforms.

The targets are vulnerable in the sense that they are looking for a service or help. They are in a hurry at times, or simply so stressed that they seem relieved to reach a customer care person to help them. They ignore any kind of red flag or fail to spend some time checking and re-checking.

Take a minute to scrutinise company logos on a website, as you open it for customer care numbers. If there are two sites claiming to be official, one needs to re-check. Be wary if the executive tells you to download a link or app. Counter that with why they need it or say you will call back. Do not be afraid to ask questions, and if you sense hesitation or discern pressure to divulge information, hold back. Customer care fraud is common. Glean information and awareness, and stay cyber sharp.