Mangaluru: A parcel arrives at your doorstep even though you haven't ordered any item online! The address and mobile number on it are perfectly correct, meaning it hasn't arrived by mistake. Still, when you get suspicious and say "I didn't order this, I don't want it," the delivery person tells you, "An OTP will come to your phone. Just tell me that so I can cancel it." If you give that OTP, your entire data falls into the hands of fraudsters!
Cyber fraudsters' tactics are taking on new forms. Cases of hacking into accounts under the pretext of online delivery are being reported. This has created a situation where even genuine delivery staff are being viewed with suspicion.
Parcels arrived continuously!
Recently, on the outskirts of Mangaluru, a woman received parcels 6–7 times despite not purchasing anything online. Each time, it was a challenge to send the delivery boy back by stating she hadn't ordered anything. Those bringing the parcels were different individuals each time. When she refused the order, they asked for an OTP. Fortunately, the woman was suspicious and did not provide the OTP, thus escaping the trap.
Fraud at the doorstep
There is growing concern that criminals, who once hacked accounts from afar, have now reached people's doorsteps. Senior citizens and those without technical knowledge are most likely to fall victim to this. The public is demanding that such fraudsters be identified and action be taken. In this era of increasing digital transactions, awareness of cybersecurity is essential; even slight negligence can lead to a major loss. Experts say "awareness is protection."
Beware, they steal fingerprints!
The delivery person might say, "My hands are dirty. Please type the OTP yourself on my device." Through this, they gain not only personal information but also potentially your fingerprint impressions. Fraudsters can later use these fingerprints to hack into biometric-linked accounts. Therefore, cyber experts warn against even touching the mobiles or tablets of strangers.
Precautionary measures
Do not accept any parcel you have not ordered.
Do not touch the delivery person's phone or device.
Never give an OTP or PIN to anyone.
Verify delivery details only through official apps or SMS.
If any suspicious transaction is noticed, inform the bank immediately.
— Bharath Shettigar
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