Barely a week ago, a Mapusa-based businessman claimed to the Cyber Crime Cell about losing Rs 18.27 lakh. On the pretext of earning huge returns on online trading of cryptocurrency, he was tricked into sharing his details and simultaneously transferred money online. It was too late for him to realize that he was a victim of phishing.
Three months ago, a woman from South Goa was scammed of Rs 11.30 lakh through the same modus operandi.
These are just two instances but many such individuals have been victims of phishing scams, which have surfaced in one form or the other.
Not through calls alone, but emails from scammers pretending to be the bank of their potential victims are also being reported. Clicking on the given link takes the victims to a fake website where the scammer collects their login details. This personal data is enough for scammers to encroach into the financial information of the victims and steal money right out of the account.
The authorities can only create awareness and of course, crack down on the scammers, but people need to be aware of the dangers of phishing scams and take measures to protect themselves.
Alertness is the key
Phone calls soliciting loans or surreptitious requests seeking a potential victim customer's financial details is a daily headache. Despite many scam numbers being blocked, the fraudsters continue to hassle their victims through a huge collection of mobile numbers - which are never traceable.
Fraud phone scamsters don't spare anyone and Chief Minister Pramod Sawant once candidly revealed he almost fell for a voice phishing scam during his recent visit to Delhi. He almost shared his Aadhaar card number with the fraud caller, before common sense dawned on him and prevented him from becoming another victim.
Anyone can fall prey to the scam. Fraudsters do not see the time, day and place as in several cases calls during the hectic schedule of victims or early/late hours have been reported. Police claim that odd timing is preferred by the fraudsters as their victims usually don't bother to counter-question the callers.
Claims that the bank account would be frozen if the customer does not share the number or pay the bill failing which the customer's water/electricity connection would be disconnected are rampant in circulation.
Last year, the State Electricity Department warned consumers against falling prey to fraudulent messages that speak about disconnecting of power supply for non-payment of electricity bills.
Banks should pitch in
to create awareness
Banks also have a responsibility to ensure the safety of their customers by implementing strict security measures, providing education on phishing scams, and promptly alerting customers of any suspicious activity.
Tips to stay safe
from phishing
- Be cautious of any unsolicited emails, particularly those requesting personal information or to click on a link.
- Check the email address of the sender to ensure it is from a legitimate source as the scammer often uses email addresses similar to legitimate sources.
- Use strong and unique passwords for all accounts and change them regularly.
- Enable two-factor authentication where possible.
- Install anti-phishing software
- Stay informed about the latest phishing techniques and scams and educate yourself on how to avoid them.
