Economic frauds in India are increasing day by day. To know how to avoid IT fraud online, we have answers for some common questions like how to deal with online frauds or how to deal with online IT frauds.
Tips you can do to avoid IT fraud
These are some things you can do to avoid IT fraud –
1. Stop believing unknown images
You should stop believing images like chats and screenshots. You are always recommended to verify its source(s) before trusting such images.
2. Don’t click on unknown attachments
Never click on attachments or links received through unknown SMS or emails unless you are sure about its source(s).
3. Check these signs
Signs like spelling mistakes, bad grammars or jumbled letters in the URL are some simple tricks to spot a scam.
4. Never share personal details
Always keep yourself alert from those links which ask your personal details. Be careful about such emails or links.
5. Beware of spyware
Spyware can monitor or steal your data from your device. You can detect spyware only when it affects your device and it will be too late then. Use good antivirus software to prevent such infection in your phone.
6. Protect your financial data
Sharing your confidential financial details like bank account number, OTP, PIN, etc. by responding to phone calls, emails or phone calls can cost you a lot. Please don’t fall into these traps.
7. Avoid sharing basic details
You should not disclose your date of birth, full name and your location, especially the place you or your family live, to unknown persons or sources.
8. Use passwords or PINs
Always use passwords, PINs or patterns to protect your phone or any other device you use. Make sure to lock it when you are not using it. You can use the Two Factor Authentication process, commonly referred to as 2FA, to secure your device from hackers
9. Don’t download random apps
You should not download any random apps from sources which are not commonly known to you. Look for detailed information about the app you want to download. Check the app’s developer, ratings and reviews before using it. It is especially important for the Android ecosystem where you can get fakes of literally everything.
10. Ask others to use own details
People, mainly senior citizens, should not share passwords with their friends. You can always tell your friends to use their own details to use an app or service. You should also log out yourself from the computer, phone or device you were using to protect its access from others. Remember, you can never retire from caution and taking security measures for your own benefits.
11. Don’t be greedy
Lastly, you should avoid being greedy to protect yourself from such frauds. Scammers and fraudsters are always aware of your choices and succeed to lure others because they known most people like to receive something free or help others.
So, whenever you are getting such offers from unknown sources which are asking for your personal information before making a decision. It will be too late if you take such steps and could do nothing apart from regretting later. Remember, only awareness and staying alert can save you from such frauds.
Never answer calls that asks you to do a SIM Swap by sending an SMS ‘SIM <20 digit number> to 121’.
Fraudsters can use several means to appear to be a genuine source, say Paytm, RBI, Bank etc.. They can even use technology to mask their real phone numbers so you see the legitimate Paytm Customer Care number 0120 3888 3888 as the caller ID.
Here are a couple of baits fraudsters often use to cheat unsuspecting consumers:
- “Hi Sir/Ma’am, you have won an exclusive offer reserved for our top customers only. Please share your credit/debit card details so we can transfer the gift money to your bank account.”
- “Hi, I’m calling from Paytm. We have launched a KYC drive across India. Doing KYC would mean you can accept up to INR 1 lakh in your Paytm Wallet. However, I would need some proof of identification and your credit/debit card details.”
- “Hi, I’m calling from Paytm. We are happy to let you know that you have won an additional Rs. 5000 cashback on your latest purchase. Please share your credit/debit card number so we can credit the money directly into your bank account.”
- “Congratulations! You have been nominated as a ‘Top Paytm Merchant’ in your locality and are now eligible for a Special Booster Pack. This will further upgrade the limits of your Paytm Wallet. Please share some proof of identification and your credit card details to avail this great offer.”
Whenever you receive such suspicious calls, messages or emails, disconnect immediately and share the fraud number with us Police/Banks and other institutions like PAYTM
Never share confidential details when you receive such unsolicited calls, SMSs or emails.
If you get a SMS/call asking for sensitive information, do not provide these details.
Don’t open or forward these suspicious links via email, SMS or chat.