The State Bank of India (SBI) has recently issued a warning advisory regarding the various ways cyber criminals could potentially scam individuals. This cautionary note comes in light of the increasing number of cyber crimes being reported across the country.
One of the common cybercrime tricks highlighted in the advisory is the TRAI phone scam. In this scam, fraudsters impersonate Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) officials and threaten individuals with suspending their mobile services, citing illegal activities or KYC non-compliance. However, it is important to note that TRAI does not have the authority to suspend mobile services, only telecom companies can do so.
Another prevalent scam mentioned in the advisory is the parcel stuck at customs fraud. Scammers will contact individuals claiming that a parcel intended for them is detained at customs due to containing illegal items. They then proceed to demand a fine from the unsuspecting victims. It is essential to report such fraudulent numbers immediately to prevent any financial loss.
The advisory also warns about the digital arrest scam, where fraudsters pose as police officers and threaten individuals with false accusations of criminal activities. It is crucial to be aware that police authorities do not conduct digital arrests or online interrogations, highlighting the importance of verifying the authenticity of such claims.
Additionally, the advisory addresses the family member arrested scam, where scammers falsely claim that a family member has been arrested and demand payment in return for their release. To avoid falling victim to such scams, it is advisable to verify the situation with family members before taking any action.
Moreover, the advisory highlights the risks associated with get-rich-quick trading schemes that promise high returns on specific stock investments. Individuals should exercise caution and thoroughly research any investment opportunities to avoid potential financial scams.
Furthermore, the advisory mentions the prevalence of scams offering easy tasks or online jobs for significant rewards, which often require a security deposit from victims. These schemes are typically fraudulent, and individuals should be wary of any offers that seem too good to be true.
The advisory also cautions against responding to messages or emails claiming that individuals have won a lottery but require account details or a security deposit to access the winnings. Such communications are likely scams designed to extract personal information or money from unsuspecting individuals.
In conclusion, the SBI advisory serves as a timely reminder for individuals to remain vigilant and exercise caution when encountering suspicious communications or offers. By being aware of common cybercrime tricks and taking preventive measures, individuals can safeguard themselves against falling victim to cyber scams. With cyber crimes on the rise, staying informed and alert is essential in protecting personal and financial information from malicious actors.