The Cybercrime Cell of Goa Police has issued a stark warning about five new and highly deceptive methods being used by online fraudsters to target citizens. These sophisticated scams, ranging from reward points deception to fake product listings, have already led to massive financial losses across the state.
Alarming Statistics: A Rs 100 Crore Heist
Official figures paint a grim picture. Cybercriminals have duped residents of Goa to the tune of approximately Rs 100 crore so far. Police sources indicate this is just the official tally, and the actual amount swindled could be significantly higher. This year's losses are already nearing the Rs 101 crore mark recorded in the previous year.
In 2024 alone, the cyber police have registered over 40 First Information Reports (FIRs) related to cyber fraud. A disturbing trend shows that 40% of these cases are linked to investment fraud. The most vulnerable group appears to be senior citizens, who constitute around 60% of investment fraud victims and a staggering over 90% of victims in digital arrest scams.
Decoding the Five New Modus Operandi
Superintendent of Police (Cybercrime) Rahul Gupta detailed the new tricks in the fraudsters' arsenal, urging the public to exercise extreme caution.
1. The Reward Points Scam
In this scheme, scammers impersonate representatives from banks or digital wallet companies. They contact potential victims, claiming that their reward points are about to expire and must be redeemed immediately. The victim is then tricked into clicking on fraudulent links, sharing One-Time Passwords (OTPs), or installing remote access applications, which leads directly to financial theft. "Verify any reward scheme only through official apps or websites. Never share OTPs or personal details with anyone," SP Gupta emphasized.
2. Fake Online Product Listings
Scammers post attractive advertisements for high-value items like smartphones, electronics, and vehicles on popular online marketplaces and social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook. These listings feature heavily discounted prices, stolen images, and fabricated reviews to appear genuine. "Victims make advance payments but receive nothing in return," Gupta stated. He advised consumers to avoid advance payments to unknown sellers and to thoroughly verify seller credentials on authorized platforms.
3. Fake Credit Card and Loan Offers
Citizens are being bombarded with messages promising instant loans, cashback offers, or credit card upgrades. These messages are designed to lure individuals into providing sensitive personal and financial information. Once obtained, fraudsters use this data to initiate unauthorized UPI transactions or card payments.
4. WhatsApp Account Hacking
This method involves cybercriminals hijacking WhatsApp accounts by deceiving users into sharing their six-digit verification codes. The hacked accounts are then misused to contact the victim's friends and family, demanding money or sending malicious links. "Never share your WhatsApp verification code. Always enable two-step verification for an added layer of security," the Cybercrime SP recommended.
5. RTO Challan APK Fraud
A newly identified threat involves the circulation of fake Android Application Packages (APKs) that claim to be apps for checking or paying pending Regional Transport Office (RTO) challans. Once installed, these malicious applications compromise the user's device and gain access to sensitive financial data stored on it.
Protect Yourself: The Police Advisory
The Goa Cybercrime Cell has reiterated crucial safety measures for all citizens. The golden rule is to never share OTPs, passwords, or verification codes with anyone, no matter how convincing the caller seems. Always cross-check offers directly via official websites and customer care numbers. Be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true, especially on social media.
In case you fall victim to any cyber fraud, immediately contact the national cybercrime helpline at 1930 or file a complaint online at cybercrime.gov.in. Prompt reporting can sometimes help in freezing transactions and tracking the criminals.
