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In the era of Digital India, as online access has increased, cyber fraud cases are also increasing rapidly. Fraudsters are now luring people with tricks like calls, messages, social media, fake apps, job offers, and quick loans. Therefore, the Ministry of Home Affairs has issued a cyber safety advisory to alert citizens. It details the various methods used by scammers to trap ordinary people and empty their accounts. Here's how to protect yourself with some simple precautions.

1. Digital Arrest Scam: Avoid Fake Police Calls
Fraudsters try to scare you by posing as police, CBI, or government officials. They claim a case has been filed against you, your data has been used for fraud, or your account will be frozen. Panicked, people transfer money. Remember, real police do not ask for money over the phone.

Keep in mind:

Immediately disconnect such calls and report the matter to www.cybercrime.gov.in or the 1930 helpline number.

2. Investment Scam: The Lure of High Returns
Fake websites or apps try to entice you into investing by promising high returns. Avoid any scheme that isn't SEBI registered. Promises like "double your money, 20% monthly return" are always fraudulent.

Be careful:

Only trust SEBI-approved apps/platforms. Don't blindly trust advertisements or groups on social media.

3. Part-Time Job Scam: Loot in the Name of Earning
Messages like "Earn ₹5,000–₹10,000 daily from home" are often found on social media or WhatsApp. This isn't a job, but a scam. They first make you complete a task, then take money in the name of a "security deposit."

Be careful:

Don't fall for these advertisements on social media.

4. Instant Loan Scam: The Fake of an Instant Loan

Don't fall for phone calls or messages promising "Loan approved in 5 minutes." Scammers steal your data and then blackmail you.

Be careful:

Only take a loan from an RBI/NBFC-verified app. Never share your personal information or bank details with anyone.

5. Unknown Link & App Download Fraud
Clicking on unknown links or downloading apps from anywhere can turn your mobile into a tool for fraud. Never click on links received via Telegram, WhatsApp, or SMS.

Be careful:

Download only from the Play Store/App Store.

6. OTP Fraud: Your OTP, Your Money
Fraudsters ask for OTPs in the name of banks, couriers, KYC, or e-commerce. You share your OTP, and your account could be emptied.

Keep in mind

No bank/company asks for an OTP, so never share your OTP with anyone.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Zee Business. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.