A 60-year-old Bengaluru man recently fell victim to a sophisticated online scam, losing a staggering Rs 2.8 crore. The scam, orchestrated by cyber fraudsters, involved sending the victim a free smartphone and SIM card under the guise of setting up a credit card account. This incident serves as a grave reminder of the increasing prevalence of cyber fraud and the need for vigilance.
How the Cyber Fraud Unfolded
The scam began in November 2024 when the victim received a WhatsApp call from an unknown number. The caller introduced himself as a representative of Citibank and informed the victim that a credit card had been issued in his name. To activate the card, he was instructed to change his registered mobile number to one linked to a new SIM card provided by Airtel.
Believing the offer to be legitimate, the victim agreed to receive the new SIM card and smartphone. On December 1, 2024, the fraudsters delivered a Redmi smartphone worth Rs 10,000 to his address. Shortly after setting up the new phone and SIM card, the victim noticed an unauthorized transaction. When he contacted his bank, he discovered that Rs 2.8 crore had been siphoned off from his account.
The Role of Malware in the Scam
Investigators suspect the scammers pre-installed malicious software on the smartphone sent to the victim. Once the device was activated and sensitive details such as banking credentials were entered, the malware enabled the fraudsters to clone the victim’s information. This gave them unrestricted access to his bank account, allowing them to execute the massive financial theft.
Expert Advice: How to Stay Safe from Online Scams
This case highlights a new trend in cyber fraud, where scammers exploit the trust of unsuspecting individuals using innovative techniques. To safeguard yourself from such scams, consider the following precautions:
- Verify the Source: Banks typically contact customers via their official registered numbers and not through platforms like WhatsApp. If in doubt, call the bank directly to confirm.
- Avoid Unsolicited Offers: Be cautious about offers involving free gifts or services, especially when personal details are requested.
- Beware of SIM Card Changes: Switching to a new SIM card should only be done through official telecom outlets. Do not trust third-party instructions.
- Avoid Unknown Links and Apps: Never open links sent by unknown individuals or download apps from unverified sources, as they may contain malware.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect a scam, file a report immediately with the local police and the cybercrime cell.
Conclusion
This alarming incident of cyber fraud in Bengaluru underscores the critical need for online vigilance. Scammers are constantly developing new strategies to deceive individuals and steal sensitive information. By staying alert and informed, you can protect yourself from falling prey to such devastating scams.
Stay cautious, and remember—if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
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