Cybercriminals in India stole over ₹10,000 crore in 2023 alone. As digital payments grow, so do the methods of online fraud. Here are the top 10 cyber frauds you must know about in 2024 — and how to protect yourself.
1. UPI Fraud (Payment Request Scam)
Fraudsters send UPI payment requests (not send) pretending to be refunding money. When you enter your PIN to “receive” money, you actually send it.
Protection: Never enter your UPI PIN to receive money. PIN is only for sending.
2. Fake Customer Care Fraud
Fraudsters create fake customer care numbers for banks, Amazon, Flipkart on Google. When you call, they ask for OTP and empty your account.
Protection: Only use numbers on the official bank website. Never share OTP with anyone.
3. Part-Time Job / Work From Home Scam
Fake job offers requiring “registration fees” or “security deposits.” Victims also become unwitting money mules as fraud money is routed through their accounts.
Protection: No legitimate job requires upfront payment. Verify company registration.
4. KYC Update Fraud
Fraudsters send SMS/WhatsApp claiming your KYC is expired and your account will be blocked. They collect your banking credentials through fake links.
Protection: Banks never ask for KYC via WhatsApp. Visit branch directly.
5. Investment / Crypto Scam
Fake investment platforms promising 50-100% returns. Victims can “see” their profits growing but cannot withdraw.
Protection: SEBI registered brokers only. No guaranteed high returns exist.
6. Lottery / Prize Fraud
“Congratulations! You won ₹50 lakhs in KBC!” Victims pay “processing fees” to claim non-existent prizes.
Protection: You cannot win a lottery you never entered.
7. Romance Scam
Fake profiles on dating apps build emotional connections then ask for emergency money (medical, travel, stuck abroad).
Protection: Never send money to someone you haven’t met in person.
8. OTP Fraud
Fraudsters call pretending to be bank officials, telecom companies, or government officers and ask for OTP to “verify” your account.
Protection: OTP is private — share with NO ONE, including bank officials.
9. Fake E-commerce Fraud
Clone websites of Flipkart, Amazon selling products at 90% discount. Products never arrive or are worthless.
Protection: Check website URL carefully. Only buy from verified platforms.
10. Screen Sharing Scam (AnyDesk/TeamViewer)
Fraudsters pose as tech support and ask you to install AnyDesk to “fix” a problem. They then access your banking apps.
Protection: Never install screen-sharing apps when asked by unsolicited callers.
Fallen Victim to Cyber Fraud?
Call 1930 immediately and visit assistportal.services to file your complaint and track your case status.
Visit AssistPortal for assistance.