The government targets parcel scams and urges reporting on cybercrime websites.
A new online scam targeting Indians uses fake deliveries and impersonates law enforcement to steal money. The government is cracking down on it.
India’s cybercrime fighter, I4C, is teaming up with the Department of Telecom (DoT) to block fake calls abroad. These calls often trick people by pretending to be from law enforcement like the NCB or CBI. I4C is also working with Microsoft to stop scammers from using official logos to make their lies seem real.
I4C raises the alarm! Scammers are extorting money by posing as law enforcement during seemingly normal calls. They use call spoofing to trick victims into believing they’re from the CBI, RBI, NIA, or banks. Thousands of fake Skype IDs impersonate Indian agencies. I4C has identified and reported a staggering 1,500 of these to Microsoft.
The scam starts with a seemingly normal call or message – it could be on WhatsApp or a regular call from an Indian number. But don’t be fooled! Scammers use call spoofing to pretend they’re from law enforcement.
Once scared, the victim is pressured to pay up! Scammers demand money through international transfers, gold, cryptocurrency, and ATM withdrawals. In some horrifying cases, they force victims into a fake “digital arrest” with video calls until the money is paid.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) warns that these scams are run by professional criminal groups operating from outside India. They create a very convincing act, using fake offices that look real – complete with uniforms and set designs to mimic police stations or government buildings.
The government is urging everyone to stay alert and report any suspicious calls or messages. You can report them on the cybercrime website under the “suspect data” section. This helps them track down the scammers. The website even lets you verify phone numbers to see if they’re suspicious. By working together, we can stop these scams!
Here’s how to stay safe from these online scams, according to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA):
Never rush into anything! If someone calls demanding immediate payment or sensitive information, especially over the phone, it’s a red flag. Always verify who’s calling before taking any action.
Fight Back, Report Scams: The power is in your hands! Report any suspicious calls, messages, or online IDs you encounter to the cybercrime website. This helps authorities track down the scammers and shut them down for good.
Never share personal or financial information over the phone, no matter how convincing the caller seems. Verify their identity first!
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Stay Smart, Stay Safe: Be informed! The government regularly issues advisories on new scam tactics and how to protect yourself. Keep yourself updated to stay ahead of the scammers.
