Online scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated in India. Here are seven common scams you should be cautious about:
- UPI & QR Code Scams
- Fraudsters send fake QR codes or payment requests via UPI apps like Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm.
- Instead of receiving money, victims end up transferring funds when they scan the code.
- Job Offer & Work-from-Home Scams
- Fake recruiters promise high-paying jobs but ask for a “registration fee” or training fee upfront.
- Some scams involve fraudulent part-time tasks, such as “pay first, earn later” schemes.
- Banking & KYC Fraud
- Scammers impersonate bank officials, claiming your account or KYC (Know Your Customer) details need updating.
- They send phishing links or ask for OTPs to steal money from your account.
- Online Shopping & Fake E-commerce Websites
- Fraudulent websites or social media pages offer products at unbelievably low prices.
- Victims pay in advance but never receive the items.
- Investment & Cryptocurrency Scams
- Scammers lure people into fake stock market, forex trading, or cryptocurrency investment platforms.
- Once money is deposited, scammers disappear, and victims lose their investments.
- Lottery & Fake Prize Scams
- Victims receive calls, emails, or SMS messages claiming they won a lottery or prize.
- To claim the prize, they are asked to pay a “processing fee” or share banking details.
- Online Dating & Romance Scams
- Scammers build fake relationships online, often on dating apps or social media.
- After gaining trust, they ask for money under false pretenses, such as medical emergencies or travel expenses.
How to Stay Safe:
✔ Never share OTPs, banking details, or personal information.
✔ Verify job offers and e-commerce websites before making payments.
✔ Avoid clicking on unknown links in emails, SMS, or WhatsApp messages.
✔ Be cautious of “too good to be true” investment opportunities.
✔ Report fraud to cybercrime.gov.in or dial 1930 (India’s cybercrime helpline).
By Pankaj Bansal
