Scam Alert! Cybercriminals Are Stealing Your Identity in These 5 Clever Ways — Stay Safe with These Expert Tips

In today's increasingly digital world, online banking, UPI apps, and digital wallets have become an integral part of daily life. While they offer convenience, they also come with rising cybersecurity risks. Cybercriminals are constantly devising new tricks to steal sensitive data and scam innocent users out of their money. A leading bank has recently issued a warning about five common methods used by fraudsters to commit identity theft and financial fraud. Here's how you can stay safe and protect your personal information.

1. Scams Posing as Banks

One of the most common tactics used by cybercriminals is impersonating a bank representative. You may receive a phone call or SMS claiming that there’s a problem with your account. The caller often seems helpful and polite but will eventually ask for your OTP (One-Time Password), login credentials, or account details.

They may pressure you to act quickly, saying your account is at risk. Remember: banks never ask for your OTP or password over the phone or via text. If someone does, it's a red flag — hang up immediately.

2. Fake Police or Government Official Calls

Fraudsters also pretend to be from government agencies such as the Income Tax Department, police, or other law enforcement bodies. They might claim you have a pending legal case or unpaid tax dues, and demand immediate payment to avoid arrest or legal action.

These tactics are designed to create panic. Keep in mind: no real government official will ask for money or sensitive information over a phone call. If you receive such a call, disconnect and report it to cybercrime authorities.

3. Corporate Email Scams (CEO Fraud)

This form of scam typically targets employees. Cybercriminals impersonate a company's CEO, finance head, or senior executive by sending a lookalike email. These emails may ask you to transfer funds urgently to an unfamiliar account or provide confidential information.

Always verify the sender’s email address carefully, and if a request seems suspicious or unusually urgent, double-check with your actual supervisor or finance team before taking any action.

4. Fake Tech Support Pop-Ups or Calls

You may see a pop-up on your laptop or receive a call claiming your device has been hacked or infected with a virus. The scammer will say they’re from a well-known tech company and may ask you to install remote access software or click on a suspicious link.

Never click on such links or download unknown software. No genuine tech support team will call you unsolicited. If in doubt, visit the official website or contact the company directly using verified contact details.

5. Impersonation of Friends or Relatives

In this emotionally manipulative tactic, scammers pose as your friend or family member in distress. They may message or call you claiming to be in an emergency and urgently in need of money.

Before sending any funds, contact the person directly using their known number or meet them in person. If anything feels off, trust your instincts and verify thoroughly before taking action.

How to Stay Safe from Cyber Scams

• Never share your OTP, passwords, or PINs with anyone — not even someone claiming to be from a bank or government agency.

• Verify URLs and email addresses carefully. Official websites will usually have secure extensions like .gov.in or .bank.

• Install antivirus software and keep your apps and operating systems updated regularly.

• Use two-factor authentication (2FA) for additional security on banking and email apps.

• Report suspicious messages or calls to the national cybercrime helpline or visit .

Final Words

As digital transactions become more common, so do the tactics used by cybercriminals. While technology makes life easier, it’s crucial to stay alert and question anything that seems too urgent, too good to be true, or out of the ordinary. By recognizing these common scams and following safety best practices, you can stay one step ahead of cyber thieves and keep your personal data protected.