Online fraud affects people of every age and background – students, homemakers, professionals and retired people. The scams change constantly, but they rely on the same few tricks: urgency, fear, greed and trust in a familiar name. Learning those patterns is the best protection.
Common scams and how to spot them
| Scam | How it works | Red flag |
|---|---|---|
| UPI “collect request” | You are asked to approve a request or enter your PIN to “receive” money | Any request to enter a PIN to receive money |
| “Digital arrest” | Callers posing as police, customs or investigators claim a parcel or case in your name and demand money on video call | Threats, secrecy and payment demands from “officials” |
| Part-time job / task scam | Paid for liking videos or reviews, then asked to “invest” to unlock earnings | Paying money to earn money |
| Investment / trading groups | WhatsApp or Telegram groups promising huge returns, fake trading apps | Guaranteed or very high returns |
| Fake customer care | Numbers from search results or ads ask you to install a remote-access app | Requests to install apps or share screen |
| KYC / electricity / bank alerts | SMS saying your account or connection will be blocked unless you click a link | Short deadlines and links in SMS |
If you lose money: the first hour
- Call 1930, the national cyber-crime helpline, and register the fraud. Quick reporting gives the best chance of the money being frozen before it moves on.
- Report online at cybercrime.gov.in with transaction IDs, account or UPI IDs, phone numbers and screenshots.
- Call your bank using the number on your card or the official app, and block cards or UPI if needed.
- Change passwords and PINs if you shared any, starting with email and banking.
- Uninstall remote-access apps the scammer asked you to install, and get your phone checked.
- Keep all evidence – do not delete chats, call logs or messages.
Everyday habits that prevent fraud
- Never share OTPs, PINs, CVV or passwords – with anyone
- Look up customer-care numbers only on official websites or apps
- Do not install apps or APK files sent by strangers
- Set daily transaction limits in your banking app
- Use the government's Sanchar Saathi portal to check mobile connections in your name and report suspected fraud calls
- Talk to elderly parents and children about these scams
Our personal cyber security team helps individuals after fraud – preserving evidence, supporting reports and securing devices and accounts. Businesses can read our security basics for SMEs or talk to our cyber security team.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get my money back after online fraud?
Sometimes. Reporting immediately through 1930 and cybercrime.gov.in gives the best chance of freezing the money in the receiving accounts. Recovery then depends on the investigation and banks.
Is it safe to receive money through UPI?
Yes. Receiving money never needs your UPI PIN. Any request to enter your PIN or approve a request to “receive” money is a scam.
What should I do if I shared my OTP?
Call your bank immediately to block transactions, change your passwords, and report on 1930 if money has been taken.
