A resident of Mohali, Chandigarh, fell victim to a scam when she received a call from an unidentified number claiming to be from a courier service. The caller informed her about a parcel in her name and requested a payment of Rs 5 as delivery charges. Without realizing the fraudulent intent, the woman clicked on the payment link provided. Consequently, her bank account suffered two unauthorized transactions, each amounting to Rs 40,000, leading to a total loss of Rs 80,000.
This type of scam is known as courier scams. In this type of scam, fraudsters pose as courier service representatives, contacting individuals and claiming they have a parcel awaiting delivery. Victims are asked to make a small payment for supposed delivery charges, luring them into a deceptive transaction. Unbeknownst to the victims, clicking on provided payment links results in unauthorized transactions from their bank accounts. This scam highlights the importance of vigilance and verifying unfamiliar calls to safeguard against financial losses.
Here’s how you can stay safe
Verify Caller Information
Always verify the identity of the caller by asking for official details and cross-checking them with the courier company’s official contact information.
Avoid Clicking on Unknown Links
Refrain from clicking on payment links sent by unknown callers or through unsolicited messages. Legitimate courier services typically provide official channels for transactions.
Independently Confirm Parcel Status
Contact the courier company directly using the official contact details to inquire about any pending deliveries. Avoid relying solely on calls or messages received from unknown sources.
Stay Informed and Educated
Stay updated on common scams and fraud tactics to recognize potential threats. Awareness is crucial in preventing falling victim to deceptive practices.
Use Trusted Payment Methods
When making online payments, prefer trusted and secure payment gateways. Avoid sharing sensitive banking information with unknown entities.
Enable Transaction Alerts
Activate transaction alerts on your bank account to receive real-time notifications of any activity, helping you detect and address unauthorized transactions promptly.
Report Suspicious Activity
Report any suspicious calls or messages to your local authorities or the cybercrime cell. Timely reporting can aid in tracking down scammers and preventing further incidents.
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