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The internet has revolutionised our lives, offering convenience and connectivity at our fingertips. With the rapid adoption of digital payments in India, fraudsters have evolved their tactics, devising new scams to exploit the growing user base. Several <keyword id="20182215" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="online-scams" source="keywords">online scams</keyword> have been reported in India over the past few months, from the standard UPI refund scams to unbelievable scams such as the digital arrest scams. Here's a look at some prevalent online scams and how to protect yourself: <h2><keyword id="23629952" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="UPI-refund-scam" source="keywords">UPI refund scam</keyword></h2>UPI refund scam is one of the most common online scams these days. It involves a person sending the victim money and then claiming that it was accidentally sent. The scammer then asks the victim to refund the money, often using excuses such as emergency hospitalisations or other important expenses. If the victim refunds the money, the scammer then contacts their bank and reverses the initial transaction, resulting in the victim losing money. How to protect yourself from UPI refund scams: <ul><li>Do not resend the money if someone claims they have “accidentally” sent you money.</li><li>If you receive money from an unknown source, contact your bank immediately.</li><li>If someone says they have sent you money, ask them to contact their bank to get a refund.</li></ul><h2><keyword id="19939895" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="phishing-scams" source="keywords">Phishing scams</keyword></h2>Phishing scams have been around for a long time, but they have become more sophisticated in the digital age. Fraudsters often impersonate reputable companies, sending fake emails, messages, or even websites that look almost identical to the real ones. These messages typically contain a sense of urgency—such as a warning that your account is about to be blocked or that you've won a prize. Once you click on the link, you’re directed to a fake site that prompts you to enter your personal information, including login credentials and payment details. This data is then used to steal money or compromise your identity. How to protect yourself from phishing scams: <ul><li>Be sceptical of unexpected messages or emails, even if they seem to come from trusted sources.</li><li>Check the URLs of websites carefully. Scammers often use misspelt URLs that are designed to look legitimate.</li><li>Never share your personal or financial information without verifying the authenticity of the request.</li></ul><h2><keyword id="23629953" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="SIM-swap-scam" source="keywords">SIM Swap scam</keyword></h2>As the name suggests, a SIM swap scam basically involves the scammer getting access to your SIM, either with the help of someone at the mobile service provider or through other means. The scammer often convinces the network provider to activate a SIM card they possess, gaining control of the victim’s phone number. This allows the scammer to gain access to all calls and text messages that the victim may receive, which is important in this day and age where all accounts are linked to your phone number. Once the scammer gets access to the victim’s phone number, they use it to gain access to their bank account and steal money. How to protect yourself from SIM swap scam: <ul><li>If your SIM stops working, immediately inform the telecom operator.</li><li>Make use of a SIM lock, which prevents your SIM from being used on another smartphone without entering a password.</li><li>Avoid sharing personal information online, especially things which can make it easier to crack your passwords.</li><li>Keep track of your accounts and report any unauthorised transactions.</li></ul><h2><keyword id="20415709" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="online-shopping-scams" source="keywords">Online Shopping Scams</keyword></h2>Beware of fake online stores offering unbelievable deals. These websites might steal your payment information or deliver counterfeit or non-existent products. These websites often advertise unbelievable deals to lure in unsuspecting customers, either with the intention of stealing their data or selling substandard products. How to stay safe: <ul><li>Shop from reputable websites. Look for customer reviews and secure payment gateways.</li><li>Be cautious of prices that seem too good to be true.</li><li>Use a credit card for online purchases. It offers better fraud protection than a debit card.</li></ul><h2>The "Digital Arrest" scam</h2>In this chilling scam, fraudsters impersonate law enforcement officials. They may claim you're involved in illegal activities and threaten you with a "digital arrest" or legal action. To avoid this, they'll demand payment or personal information. Victims are often coerced into making payments via UPI or other digital means. The sense of urgency and fear of legal consequences often compels people to act without verifying the legitimacy of the claim. How to avoid: <ul><li>Know your rights: Law enforcement agencies will never demand payment or personal information over the phone or online. </li><li>Verify identities: If you receive such a call, hang up and directly contact the relevant authorities to verify the claim.</li></ul><h2><keyword id="23629954" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="KYC-scam" source="keywords">KYC scam</keyword></h2>With the increased demand for KYC (know your customer) updates across digital platforms, fraudsters are taking advantage by posing as bank or telecom representatives. They often claim that your account will be blocked if you don’t update your KYC details immediately. Victims are then asked to share their Aadhaar number, PAN, or other personal details via a fraudulent link or over a call. In some cases, they also ask users to complete the process through UPI apps, stealing money from their accounts during the process. How to avoid it: <ul><li>Banks and financial institutions never ask for personal details over a call, message, or link.</li><li>Always update KYC details through official channels, like the bank’s app or website.</li><li>If you receive a suspicious KYC request, report it to your bank’s customer service immediately.</li></ul>SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/waaree-energies-to-afcons-infrastructure-ipos-to-look-out-for-this-week/articleshow/114421377.cms">Waaree Energies to Afcons Infrastructure, IPOs to look out for this week</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/personal-finance/news/best-credit-cards-for-online-shopping-in-india/articleshow/114354358.cms">Best credit cards for online shopping this festive season</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/bigger-they-are-harder-they-fall-a-look-at-how-the-countrys-biggest-ipos-have-fared/articleshow/114307997.cms">Bigger they are, harder they fall – A look at how the country’s biggest IPOs have fared</a>

UPI refund to digital arrest scam, here are some online scams you need to be aware of

In the last few months, have you received a suspicious call from a stranger claiming that you have won a cash prize? Or has someone tried reaching out to you saying that a relative is in trouble and urgently needs money? If you answered yes to any of these questions, know that you are not alone. <keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="India" source="keywords">India</keyword> has reported a rise in scam calls in recent months and these calls seem to be increasing at a rapid rate. But not just calls, there are various other platforms that scammers try to take advantage of, to rob people of their hard-earned money. Read on to know about the top 5 <keyword id="22618205" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="personal-finance-scams" source="keywords">personal finance scams</keyword> that are surfacing in India and how you can stay safe from them. <h2>Fake <keyword id="20488964" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="job-offer" source="keywords">job offer</keyword> scams</h2>This is one of the most commonly reported scams. Over the last year, there have been many cases where people were approached for seemingly lucrative job offers via platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram. Some of these cases involved the victim making payments to certain accounts, while being made to believe that it is a part of the job and there will be a handsome return later. For instance, a PTI report in May this year revealed that a woman from Navi Mumbai found herself trapped in an online fraud and lost Rs 54 lakh. The victim wanted to earn some extra money by working from home and was reportedly offered freelance work by the scammers. She was also told that she would earn money after completing five tasks. And to receive these tasks, the woman claimed that she paid Rs 54.30 lakh in various accounts. When the woman asked for payment after completing the tasks assigned to her, the scammers stopped replying. <h2>Sweetheart scams</h2>Meeting the love of your life through an <keyword id="20167528" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="online-platform" source="keywords">online platform</keyword> seems too good to be true at times. And sometimes, this really is the case. Various cases have surfaced in the past where the victims were duped of their hard-earned money by their online lovers. Just last month, a man in Delhi was scammed of Rs 1.2 lakh when he planned to meet a woman he was talking to on Tinder. The two met at a cafe in Delhi to celebrate the woman’s birthday and ordered some snacks, cakes, and wine. The woman however, abruptly left in the middle of the date citing a family emergency. And the victim incurred a bill of Rs 1,21,917.70 for food that should have only cost a few thousand bucks. When he questioned the high bill, he was threatened and forced to pay. After investigating, the police found that the cafe split the high bills in a set way: 15% to the girl, 45% to the table and cafe managers, and 40% to the owners. <h2>Fake screenshots scams</h2>Another type of scam that is widely happening in the country is where you are shown a screenshot that gives the impression that your account has been credited with some money, when it actually has not. For instance, in March this year, a Delhi Uber driver was making headlines for overcharging a customer for a ride to the airport. A Moneycontrol report mentioned how a man described his experience in a Reddit thread. As per the report, the man said that he had booked a ride to the airport and the initial fare was Rs 340. However, when the ride was completed, the Uber driver showed him a screenshot which depicted that the fare was Rs 648. The driver had claimed that the fare increased due to more waiting time. However, that wasn’t the case and the driver had created a fake screenshot to demand extra money. After this post went viral, several other Reddit users reported similar incidents. <h2><keyword id="19925254" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="YouTube" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="YouTube" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="YouTube">YouTube</keyword> like and earn scam</h2>This one is similar to the completing tasks scam. In this scam, <keyword id="20013464" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="fraudsters" source="keywords">fraudsters</keyword> tend to tell the victim that they will have to engage with a YouTube channel to earn money. They then ask the person to make certain payments, promising a greater reward later on. Once the victim transfers the money, the fraudsters tend to disappear into thin air. In February this year, there were reports of a man losing Rs 16 lakh due to such a scam. <h2><keyword id="19957108" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="online-shopping" source="keywords">Online shopping</keyword> scam</h2>If you have ever shopped online, be sure to read this one. Many scamsters come up with fake advertisements on reputed platforms like Instagram to lure people into buying items online. In such scams, once the order has been placed and payment has been made, the victim doesn’t receive the products. In addition to this, scammers can also pose as bank employees and gain access to sensitive information of the victim’s account. For instance, a report by PTI last year revealed that a 70-year-old woman was buying six towels online for Rs 1,160. While making the payment, Rs 19,005 was taken from her account instead of Rs 1,160. She tried to contact the bank helpline but couldn't reach them. Soon after, she got a call from an unknown number. The caller claimed to be from the bank and offered to help with her payment problem. He asked her to download an app for the refund. The woman followed his instructions but ended up losing Rs 1 lakh from her account. When she saw the unauthorised transactions, she went to the police station. Meanwhile, another Rs 8.3 lakh was withdrawn from her account. <h2>How to stay safe from such scams</h2>Even though more and more people are being targeted by scammers, there are some ways that you can ensure that you stay safe. Keep these few points in mind in order to protect yourself against personal financial scams. <ol><li>Don’t share your personal information with strangers online or on the phone. </li><li>Don’t make any payments just because a stranger told you to. Verify the situation and the person’s credentials. </li><li>Don’t click on suspicious links that are sent to you on emails or text messages. </li><li>Avoid shopping for doubtful websites or accepting job offers from sites that appear dubious. </li><li>Before taking up any job offer, perform a thorough search of the company or the person who is claiming to recruit you. </li><li>Read up a bit about popular scams going on right now. At times, a simple Google Search can help you save up loads of money. </li></ol>

Top 5 personal finance scams in India and how to stay safe from them

Online scams in India have been on the rise for the last few months and every now and then, a new case surfaces where a victim loses their hard-earned money. Usually, scammers in many cases pose as company officials to steal your sensitive information and misuse it. In one such recent incident, a 44-year-old woman from <keyword id="19895934" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="noida" source="keywords">Noida</keyword> recently fell victim to an <keyword id="20971199" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="esim-scam" source="Orion">eSIM scam</keyword>, losing ₹27 lakh and becoming the target of fraudulent loan activity. The scam involved the manipulation of her <keyword id="19909735" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sim" source="keywords">SIM</keyword> card and banking details, which allowed the fraudster to siphon off her funds and take out a loan in her name. <h2>What exactly happened</h2> According to an HT report, <keyword id="23110017" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="jyotsana-bhatia" source="keywords">Jyotsana Bhatia</keyword>, a resident of Sector 82 in Noida, works at a private company and filed a complaint with the cybercrime police station in Sector 36. On August 31, Bhatia received a WhatsApp call from a person posing as a customer care executive from her telecom provider. The caller explained that her SIM card could be converted to an embedded SIM (eSIM), which is a digital version of a physical SIM card and can be helpful in case of phone loss. The suspect offered to help Bhatia activate the eSIM feature, instructing her to select the option in her mobile carrier’s application and enter a verification code that was sent to her phone. Bhatia, unaware of the fraud, followed the steps as instructed. Unfortunately, as soon as she entered the code, her physical SIM card was deactivated. The suspect assured her that a new SIM card would be delivered by September 1, leaving her temporarily without access to her mobile number. When the promised SIM card failed to arrive, Bhatia contacted the telecom provider’s customer care service and was advised to visit the service centre to get a replacement. After three days, on September 3, she was issued a new SIM card. However, by then, the damage had already been done. Bhatia started receiving messages from her bank, revealing that the fraudster had accessed her mobile banking account using her deactivated phone number. By changing the associated email ID, the suspect was able to bypass security checks and transfer large sums of money from her accounts. The fraudster also broke her fixed deposit, siphoned money from two bank accounts, and even took out a loan of ₹7.40 lakh in her name. Bhatia reported that the total amount stolen in multiple transactions amounted to ₹27 lakh. Shocked by the breach, she immediately filed an FIR with the cybercrime unit. The police registered the case under sections 318(4) (cheating) and 319(2) (cheating by personation) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, as well as under relevant sections of the IT Act. Efforts to track down the suspect are currently underway. <h2>Understanding eSIM and its risks </h2> An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital version of a SIM card that is built into a device and does not require a physical card. While this technology is convenient and allows users to switch networks or plans without handling a physical card, it also opens the door to new forms of fraud. Scammers can manipulate eSIM features to deactivate a user’s existing SIM card and take control of their phone number, which is linked to various accounts and services. In this case, the fraudster exploited the victim’s trust by posing as a telecom customer care executive, taking advantage of her lack of knowledge about the risks associated with eSIM activation. Once the fraudster gained control of her phone number, they accessed her bank accounts through mobile banking applications that rely on the phone number for authentication. By changing the email ID linked to her account, they prevented the victim from receiving security alerts and were able to make unauthorised transactions without her knowledge.

Noida woman tries getting her sim card converted into e-sim, ends up losing Rs 27 lakh

<ul><li>These scams predominantly target inexperienced job seekers who may not recognize the warning signs </li><li><keyword id="386981" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="scammers" source="Orion">Scammers</keyword> entice individuals with unrealistic offers or by impersonating legitimate companies </li><li>Under any circumstances, candidates should not transfer funds to unfamiliar accounts or reveal their bank/financial details </li></ul><keyword id="6953455" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="job-scams" source="Orion">Job scams</keyword> were always around, but ever since the pandemic and lockdowns, remote job scams have become more common. In the post-pandemic world, many companies have continued with remote work. However, others have called their employees back to the office. Some have also adopted a hybrid model where employees need to go to the office a few days every week. And the scammers are taking advantage of this trend! Why remote job scams are on the rise The increase in fake job scams, especially remote job scams can be attributed to several factors. Lots of people, especially those who got used to the remote working conditions, are now looking for remote jobs because it not only allows them to work from the comfort of their homes, it also does away with commuting and offers a better work-life balance. This is a need that remote job scammers target. Candidates often upload their personal information such as mobile number, email address, educational qualification, etc. on various online job portals during the job hunt. “Malicious parties can easily pry into such personal details and misuse them to create fake jobs. Additionally, with remote work models becoming commonplace, more candidates are falling for these traps in hopes of an opportunity without much verification,” says Sachin Alug, CEO of NLB Services, a talent solutions company. A challenging job market coupled with eager job seekers renders individuals more vulnerable to scams promising lucrative opportunities. Many of these jobs come with the promise of an entirely remote job, with a good salary and healthy benefits. “The prevalence of online job searching provides scammers with anonymity, enabling them to easily post <keyword id="18849320" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="fake-listings" source="Orion">fake listings</keyword> that appear authentic. The emergence of deepfakes introduces a new and concerning threat to job seekers in India, further complicating existing scams,” says Manu Saigal, Director, General Staffing, Adecco, a job consultancy. These scams predominantly target inexperienced job seekers who may not recognize the warning signs. Scammers entice individuals with unrealistic offers or by impersonating legitimate companies. This not only jeopardises the financial well-being of job seekers but also tarnishes the reputation of genuine companies, as scammers often exploit their identities to lend credibility to their schemes. Be aware of potential red flags It is possible to identify job scams if you are aware of certain red flags. “By remaining vigilant and aware of these red flags, you can significantly mitigate the risk of falling victim to fraudulent job scams and other deceptive tactics,” says Saigal. Unrealistic offers: Many such job offers are unrealistic, particularly if they offer exceptionally high salaries or benefits with minimal experience required. Also, employers in foreign countries may not be offering fully remote jobs to those in India. Fake urgency: Beware of scammers pressuring you to act quickly, bypass standard application procedures, or pay upfront fees. Reputable companies typically maintain clear and established application processes. Unprofessional communication: Watch for typos, grammatical errors, or poorly written communication in job postings or emails, as legitimate companies typically uphold professional communication standards. Requests for personal information or upfront payment: Avoid disclosing sensitive information such as bank details or social security numbers during the application process. Legitimate companies do not require payment for training or equipment prior to employment. Do not fall into the trap First and foremost, jobseekers must use authentic platforms to share their personal information. Clicking on a random link they receive in email or visiting a job site they have not heard of before is never a good idea. “When contacted for jobs, they must conduct thorough research on the offering party to validate their authenticity. A Google/LinkedIn search can be quite handy in verifying the identity of the employer/recruiter,” says Alug. Under any circumstances, candidates should not transfer funds to unfamiliar accounts or reveal their bank/financial details. Jobseekers can avoid these traps by exercising caution and doing their due diligence before responding to a job. Remember, if something is too good to be true, it probably is.

Remote job scams are on the rise! How to stay safe?

<ul><li>An advocate from Delhi has reportedly lost ₹50 lakh in a <keyword id="7188388" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="SIM-Swap-scam" source="Orion">SIM swap scam</keyword>.</li><li>The woman has claimed that she did not share any OTP or banking information with the scammer.</li><li>Here’s everything you need to know about the <keyword id="6566424" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="SIM-Swap" source="Orion">SIM swap</keyword> scam and how to protect yourself.</li></ul> In a bizarre incident, a woman from Delhi has reportedly lost ₹50 lakh to a new scam that is on the rise. The 35-year-old advocate has become the latest victim of what is being labelled as a <keyword id="6427652" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="sim" source="Orion">SIM</keyword> swap scam, raising concerns across the country. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="First, what happened" comment="subhead" text="First, what happened">First, what happened</cmsannotation> The victim has claimed that she received three missed calls from an unknown number. Then, she called the person from another number and the caller claimed that it was a courier delivery call. The victim then shared her address with the caller. After this, she received two messages revealing that 50 lakh were debited from her account. As per the victim, she did not share any OTP or banking details with the scammer. Investigators have found that there were several debits from the victim’s account without her knowledge. During the investigation, the police uncovered “unusual” web browsing history on the victim’s phone. Several websites and portals that the victim had not visited were noticed on her phone’s history. Additionally, the cops found a suspicious message about UPI registration as well. “The woman in her complaint has also said that she received a call after the scam from a man, who portrayed himself as an IFSO officer, seeking her bank statement. Luckily, she didn’t share any details with him,” the officer said. IFSO is the Intelligence Fusion and Strategic Operations (IFSO) Unit of the Delhi Police. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="SIM Swap scam" comment="subhead" text="SIM Swap scam">SIM Swap scam</cmsannotation> The investigation has so far led the cops to believe that this is another instance of a SIM swap scam. Earlier this year, a businessman from Kolkata had<a href="https://www.indiatoday.in/technology/news/story/kolkata-businessman-loses-rs-72-lakh-in-sim-swap-fraud-two-arrested-heres-how-you-can-stay-safe-2357387-2023-04-08"> lost</a> ₹72 lakh in a similar fraud. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="What is a SIM Swap scam?" comment="subhead" text="What is a SIM Swap scam?">What is a SIM Swap scam?</cmsannotation> As the name suggests, a SIM swap scam basically involves the scammer getting access to your SIM, either with the help of someone at the mobile service provider or through other means. The scammer often convinces the network provider to activate a SIM card they possess, gaining control of the victim’s phone number. This allows the scammer to gain access to all calls and text messages that the victim may receive, which is important in this day and age where all accounts are linked to your phone number. Once the scammer gets access to the victim’s phone number, they use it to gain access to their bank account and steal money. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="How to protect yourself from SIM swap scam" comment="subhead" text="How to protect yourself from SIM swap scam">How to protect yourself from SIM swap scam</cmsannotation> While there’s a lot more that is needed to learn about SIM swap scam, here are some things that you can do – <ul><li>If your SIM stops working, immediately inform the telecom operator.</li><li>Make use of a SIM lock, which prevents your SIM from being used on another smartphone without entering a password.</li><li>Avoid sharing personal information online, especially things which can make it easier to crack your passwords.</li><li>Keep a track of your accounts and report any unauthorised transactions.</li></ul>SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/sports/webstories/fastest-centuries-in-icc-odi-world-cup-history/slidelist/104720578.cms">Glenn Maxwell to Rohit Sharma – The fastest centuries in World Cup history</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/best-smartphones-under-rs-50000-in-india-oneplus-apple-and-google-phones-also-in-the-list/slidelist/104699569.cms">From Pixel 7 to iPhone 13 – best smartphones under ₹50,000 in India</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/crossbeats-nexus-smartwatch-with-chatgpt-integration-announced-in-india/articleshow/104725233.cms">Now a smartwatch with ChatGPT integration gets set to hit Indian markets</a>

Delhi woman loses ₹50 lakh in SIM Swap scam – Here’s how you can stay safe

Who are money mules and how to save yourself from becoming one

<ul><li>69% of Indians cannot distinguish between fake and real voices.</li><li>Fake voice messages of friends and family members are sent by scammers who pretend to be distressed.</li><li>Below, read about some tips for identifying AI voice calls and how to protect yourself from AI voice call scams.</li></ul><keyword id="127849" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="mcafee" source="Orion">McAfee</keyword> has released a report called ‘The <keyword id="17300707" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="artificial-imposter" source="Orion">Artificial Imposter</keyword>,’ highlighting how the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) technology is facilitating an increase in online voice scams. The study was conducted in seven countries, including India, and involved 7,054 participants. The survey shows that a majority of Indians, more than half (69%), cannot distinguish between an AI voice and a real voice. Nearly half (47%) of Indian adults have either experienced or know someone who has experienced some sort of <keyword id="17300703" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="AI-voice-scam" source="Orion">AI voice scam</keyword>, which is almost twice the global average of 25%. Additionally, 83% of Indian victims reported a monetary loss, with 48% losing over ₹50,000. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Voice cloning scams on the rise in India" comment="subhead" text="Voice cloning scams on the rise in India">Voice cloning scams on the rise in India</cmsannotation> According to McAfee, voice cloning scams are rising in India, with cybercriminals using AI technology to manipulate the voices of friends and family members. The report states that 86% of Indian adults share their voice data online at least once a week, making voice cloning an increasingly powerful tool in the hands of scammers. The study found that 69% of Indian adults cannot distinguish between a cloned voice and the real one, making it easier for scammers to trick people into falling for their schemes. The most common type of voice cloning scam involves scammers sending fake voicemails or voice notes pretending to be someone in distress or even calling victims' contacts directly. According to the report, more than half (66%) of Indian respondents said they would reply to a voicemail or voice note purporting to be from a friend or loved one in need of money, particularly if they believed it came from a parent (46%), partner or spouse (34%), or child (12%). Messages claiming that the sender had been robbed, involved in a car incident, lost their phone or wallet, or needed help while traveling abroad were most likely to elicit a response. AI voice scams can be difficult to detect, but there are some signs to look out for: <ol><li>Urgency: Scammers often create a sense of urgency, claiming they need help immediately.</li><li>Request for money: Scammers may ask for money or request that you transfer funds to a particular account.</li><li>Unusual behavior: The scammer may claim to be in distress or in an unusual situation.</li><li>Changes in the tone of voice: The voice may sound different from the person you know, or the tone may be inconsistent with the situation.</li><li>Unusual requests: The scammer may ask for personal information or login credentials.</li></ol>It is important to stay alert and cautious when receiving unexpected calls or messages, especially if they involve requests for money or personal information. If in doubt, verifying the person's identity by calling them back on a trusted phone number is always a good idea. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself from AI voice cloning scams: <ul><li>Be wary of unexpected calls or messages from friends or family members. If you receive a request for money or personal information, take a moment to confirm your identity through another channel of communication, such as texting or video calling.</li><li>Keep your personal information private. Avoid sharing sensitive details about your life on social media or other public forums that cybercriminals could use to clone your voice.</li><li>Use strong and unique passwords for all your online accounts, including social media and email. Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.</li><li>Regularly update your antivirus software and update your operating system with the latest security patches.</li><li>Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could contain malware that could give cybercriminals access to your device and personal information.</li><li>Educate yourself on the latest cyber threats and stay up-to-date on recognizing and avoiding them.</li></ul>SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/what-are-vishing-scams-that-start-with-a-namaste-and-end-with-monetary-losses/articleshow/99762900.cms">What are ‘vishing scams’ that start with a Namaste and end with monetary losses</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/sony-wh-ch720n-headphones-review-featherweight-comfort-and-impressive-sound/articleshow/99911412.cms">Sony WH-CH720N headphones review: Featherweight comfort and impressive sound</a>

7 out of 10 Indians are unable to identify AI voice call scams, and half fall for scams with monetary losses

<ul><li>WhatsApp has become a popular target for scammers.</li><li>Scammers target unsuspecting users via WA with job offers, QR codes, crypto scams and more.</li><li>Beware of unsolicited messages, especially those that ask for personal information.</li><li>Read about the different types of WhatsApp scams and how you can spot them.</li></ul>With its widespread usage and seamless communication capabilities, WhatsApp has seamlessly integrated into our daily lives, connecting people across the globe. However, the growing concern lies in the fact that this popular messaging platform has also become a breeding ground for scams and fraudulent activities, particularly in <keyword id="3658" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="india" source="Orion">India</keyword> — one of its largest markets. These scams manifest in various forms, posing serious consequences that range from financial losses to compromised personal information and even identity theft. Exploiting the trust and vulnerability of unsuspecting users, scammers employ deceptive tactics that prey on desires for financial gain, job opportunities, or other enticing offers. Adding to the complexity, scammers often impersonate reputable organizations or individuals, blurring the line between genuine and fraudulent messages. To make matters worse, scammers constantly adapt their tactics to match the evolving technological landscape. This emphasizes the need for users to stay informed and educated about scams to protect themselves. By acquiring knowledge of the different types of WhatsApp scams in India and implementing preventive measures, individuals can fortify their defenses against these rising threats. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Different types of WhatsApp scam in India" comment="subhead" text="Different types of WhatsApp scam in India">Different types of <keyword id="17439678" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="WhatsApp-scam-in-India" source="Orion">WhatsApp scam in India</keyword></cmsannotation> <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Work from Home" comment="subhead" text="Work from Home">Work from Home</cmsannotation> In a prevalent work-from-home scam, scammers target individuals by sending enticing job offers and subsequently instructing them to create <keyword id="1275203" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="telegram" source="Orion">Telegram</keyword> accounts. Once the victims respond to the job offer, they are then assigned tasks that require them to pay a certain amount of money for each task. This particular scam capitalizes on the increasing popularity of remote work and the desire for flexible job opportunities. By leveraging the anonymity and ease of communication offered by Telegram, scammers create an illusion of legitimacy and credibility. However, it is important to recognize the red flags and protect oneself from falling victim to such fraudulent schemes. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="WhatsApp QR code" comment="subhead" text="WhatsApp QR code"><keyword id="7120243" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="whatsapp-qr" source="Orion">WhatsApp QR</keyword> code</cmsannotation> Fraudsters frequently attempt to deceive users by sending text messages accompanied by a QR code, claiming that the recipient has won a cash prize. However, falling for this scam leads users to inadvertently pay money to the fraudster instead of receiving any prize. In this scheme, scammers exploit the desire for monetary gain and lure unsuspecting individuals into their trap through the promise of a cash reward. By sending text messages containing enticing messages and QR codes, they create an illusion of legitimacy. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Crypto scams" comment="subhead" text="Crypto scams">Crypto scams</cmsannotation> Cybercriminals often entice unsuspecting users by soliciting investments in cryptocurrencies, enticing them with the promise of significant returns on their investment. In this scam, fraudsters leverage the growing popularity of cryptocurrencies and capitalize on people's desire to capitalize on the digital asset market. They employ persuasive tactics to convince individuals to invest their money in dubious or non-existent digital currencies. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Lottery scams" comment="subhead" text="Lottery scams">Lottery scams</cmsannotation> This particular scam revolves around an image or video that falsely declares the recipient as the winner of a substantial cash prize. The scam prompts the user to contact the phone number mentioned in the image or video and requests the payment of a certain amount, which is claimed to be refundable. In this scheme, fraudsters prey upon people's desire for financial gain and exploit their trust through the allure of winning a prize. By presenting an image or video that appears authentic, they create a sense of credibility. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Video call scam" comment="subhead" text="Video call scam">Video call scam</cmsannotation> This particular scam operates on a more sinister level, employing blackmail tactics to exploit innocent users. In this scenario, users receive video calls from unfamiliar numbers, often accompanied by profile pictures of attractive individuals. Upon answering the call, the scammer immediately starts playing explicit videos, typically of a sexual nature, while secretly recording the user's reaction. With the recorded material in hand, the scammer proceeds to blackmail the user, demanding a sum of money. They threaten to share the compromising video online or with the user's contacts unless the ransom is paid. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="How to recognise WhatsApp scams?" comment="subhead" text="How to recognise WhatsApp scams?">How to recognise WhatsApp scams?</cmsannotation> Unsolicited messages: Be wary of receiving messages from unknown numbers or contacts without any prior interaction. Scammers often initiate conversations without any legitimate reason or connection. Poor grammar and spelling errors: Pay attention to messages that contain noticeable grammar mistakes, mis-spelt words, or awkward language usage. These errors can indicate a lack of professionalism or a scammer operating from a non-English-speaking background. Requests for personal information: Legitimate organizations rarely ask for personal information like passwords, financial details, or identification documents through WhatsApp messages. If someone requests sensitive information, it's best to be suspicious as it may be an attempt to scam you. Offers that seem too good to be true: Exercise skepticism when you receive offers that appear too good to be true, such as winning lotteries, receiving large sums of money effortlessly, or unbelievable discounts. Legitimate opportunities usually involve effort or carry some level of risk. Urgency and pressure tactics: Scammers often create a sense of urgency and pressure you to act quickly without giving you time to verify their claims. Be cautious of messages that demand immediate action or threaten negative consequences if you don't comply. Suspicious links or attachments: Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown attachments sent through WhatsApp messages. These can contain malware or be part of phishing attempts to steal your personal information. Impersonation of trusted individuals or organizations: Scammers may pretend to be trusted contacts, companies, or government agencies to gain your trust. Verify the sender's identity through alternate means before sharing any information. Unusual or unexpected requests: Be wary if someone asks you to perform unusual tasks, make payments, or share sensitive information through WhatsApp. Take the time to verify the authenticity of the request through official channels or by contacting the organization directly. Lack of verification symbols: Official businesses or organizations on WhatsApp often have verified accounts indicated by a green badge next to their profile. If a message comes from an unverified account claiming to represent a well-known entity, it raises suspicion and may be a scam. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/heres-how-googles-new-ai-updates-will-transform-your-search-experience/articleshow/100242791.cms">Here’s how Google’s new AI updates will transform your search experience</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/best-google-pixel-7a-alternatives-5-phones-to-consider-before-you-buy/articleshow/100252872.cms">Best Google Pixel 7a alternatives: 5 phones to consider before you buy</a>

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