Don't get conned by fraud calls; protect yourself this way

There have been several cases of fraud calls to the general public from job portals, or some banks. But as pepole respond to the call and act on the ‘threat’, they realise that their bank account has been hacked and money siphoned off.

The latest case of fraud is related to the job portal, Naukri.com. A caller tried to trap a person named Abhay (name changed), impersonating somebody from Naukri.com. Though Naukri.com has no connection with this incident. Abhay is not the only person who receives such calls and messages. These calls or messages are made with the intention to scare and threaten you so that fraudsters can commit fraud. They threaten to call the police if you don’t pay them money. People who are unaware of such tricks, end up paying money to save themselves from embarrassment.

Now Abhay is worried as he hasn’t done anything that could lead to a warrant being issued. Why would the police arrest him? What would he do then? So, let’s find out how cyber crime is increasing in the country.

As the country is becoming more and more digital, new methods of fraud are being used. Since 2020, 16 lakh cases of cybercrime have come to light. More than 32,000 FIRs have been registered on these 16 lakh cases, according to minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai. Financial frauds of value of more than Rs 180 crore have been averted so far. All cybercrime activities involve the use of computers or computer networks.

How  your fear can make you bankrupt?
People are being targeted on a large scale by fake messages and calls. Criminal-minded people scare people. They tell you that a fine is pending in court, a warrant has been issued, the police is looking for you, a lucky draw has been conducted etc. They will give investment tips, claim that you have not paid your electricity bill, or use various other tactics to scare you. And this fear makes you to make a mistake and you lose your money.

How should you deal with fraud calls?
There is no set pattern followed by fraudsters. Yes, if you pay attention to certain things and stay a little cautious, you can avoid getting trapped. If you receive a call or message from an unknown number and, if it is about a ticket or an FIR, then, you should ask some questions. If you have any doubt on the call, start asking the basic questions that come to your mind. You will get answers to your questions on a real call, but a fraud caller will instead start asking counter questions instead of giving you answers.

Where should you file a complaint?
If you have received a fake call from a company, the first step is to contact the company’s toll-free number or email ID. You will get more clarity on the matter. The second option is to file a complaint at the police station or cybercrime police station.

Can you also file online complaint?
Not only that, you can also file online complaint about such fake calls. You can file your complaint on the National cybercrime reporting portal – cybercrime.gov.in. You can also file your complaint on the toll-free national helpline number 1930. You can also follow the relevant authority on social media, go to their page, and complain directly and ask for advice.

Just like Abhay, if you receive any fake call or message, don’t be scared. Don’t send any money. Inform the relevant authority. Don’t share any personal or financial information with any unknown person. Otherwise, scammers will defraud you within minutes. If anyone asks for money with the promise that they will ensure you a job, then, you should know that no reputable company asks for money for  job offers.