The State Bank of India (SBI) has issued a detailed advisory to warn the public about various ways cybercriminals are attempting to defraud individuals. This comes in light of the increasing number of cybercrimes reported across the country.
Here are 10 common scams to be aware of:
1. TRAI Phone Scam Fraudsters may impersonate officials from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), threatening to suspend your mobile services due to alleged illegal activities or KYC non-compliance. Remember, TRAI does not suspend mobile services—only telecom companies can do so.
2. Parcel Stuck at Customs Scammers might call claiming that a parcel meant for you is stuck at customs because it contains illegal items, and they will demand a fine for release. These calls should be reported immediately.
3. Digital Arrest Scam A rising scam sees criminals posing as police officials, claiming you’re under investigation for fake criminal charges. Be aware that police do not conduct digital arrests or online interrogations.
4. Family Member Arrested In this scam, fraudsters claim a family member or relative has been arrested and demand money for their release. Always verify with your family before taking any action.
5. Get-Rich-Quick Trading Beware of social media ads promoting high returns from specific stock investments. These are often scams designed to exploit individuals hoping for easy money.
6. Easy Tasks/Online Jobs for Big Rewards Some fraudsters offer large sums of money for performing simple tasks but ask for a security deposit upfront. These “easy money” schemes are almost always scams.
7. Lottery Win Scam If you receive an email or message claiming you’ve won a lottery, especially if it asks for your bank details or a security deposit, it is a scam.
8. Mistaken Money Transfer If you’re contacted about an incorrect amount credited to your account and asked for a refund, it’s likely a scam. Always verify such transactions with your bank.
9. KYC Expiry Scam Fraudsters may contact you, posing as bank representatives, and ask for KYC updates. Be cautious, as banks never request KYC updates through calls or links.
10. Generous Tax Refund Scam Some scammers impersonate tax officials and ask for your bank details. However, the tax department already has your details and never requests them via phone or email.
The advisory was also shared on X (formerly Twitter) by Nilesh Shah, Managing Director of Kotak Mutual Fund, who urged people to remain vigilant. He wrote, “Whatever shines is not necessarily Gold. Read carefully various ways in which fraudsters try to con you.”
SBI’s advisory is a reminder for everyone to stay cautious and verify any suspicious communication, especially when personal or financial information is involved.
