Online Scam Alert: Top 10 Cyber Fraud Tricks Targeting Indians in 2025

May 26, 2025

NewsPoint

TRAI Impersonation Threats

Scammers impersonate TRAI officials, accusing victims of illegal activities and threatening disconnection. Calls may be escalated to fake cyber police. TRAI never handles disconnections—only telecom operators do. Hang up and report the number.

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False Family Member Arrest Claims

Criminals claim your relative is being arrested for a crime and demand bribes to “settle” the case. Some even use AI-generated voice clips to sound like your loved ones. Always verify with family and never transfer money out of panic.

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Fake Stock Investment Scams

Scammers promote fake investment groups offering 30–40% returns via social media. Initial gains convince victims to invest more—but all data is fabricated. Once large sums are invested, the fraudsters vanish. High returns always carry high risk—be wary.

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‘Easy Money’ for Tasks Hoax

You’re promised big rewards for simple actions—liking posts or sharing links. After a few tasks, they urge crypto investments. A small “reward” lures you into investing more. Once you do, the scammers disappear. Easy money offers are red flags.

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Customs Parcel Seizure Scam

Victims are told a parcel with illegal items is seized by customs, and they must pay to release it. Fraudsters often use phishing links to hack devices. Never share personal data or make payments based on such threats. Contact real authorities if unsure.

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Fake Money Transfer Traps

You get a message saying money was mistakenly credited to your account, followed by a call demanding it back. In most cases, no money ever arrived. Always check your account before taking any action. Don’t fall for fake transfer stories.

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KYC Update Fraud

Scammers send fake SMS/emails with links for urgent KYC updates. Clicking these links gives them access to sensitive data. Banks do not update KYC online or via SMS links—they ask you to visit the branch. Stay alert and don’t click unknown links.

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Fake Tax Refund Offers

You get a call claiming to be from the tax department, offering fast refunds in exchange for your bank details. Once shared, your account is drained. The tax department already has your data and never asks for details over calls. Ignore and report such messages.

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Credit Card Fraud Calls

Posing as bank staff, scammers report fake high-value card transactions, then ask for card info and OTPs. This data is used to drain accounts. Banks never ask for such details over the phone. Hang up and call your bank directly to confirm.

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Fake Digital Arrest Intimidation

Fraudsters posing as CBI or police officials accuse victims of crimes and conduct video interrogations, threatening a “digital arrest.” Authorities confirm they don’t do online arrests. Disconnect immediately and inform the cybercrime helpline.

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Stay Alert, Stay Safe

Scammers evolve every day, targeting people across all age groups. The key to staying safe is awareness and skepticism. Never share personal or banking info with unknown callers or links. When in doubt, verify with official sources before responding.

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