There are no geographical borders as far as action by the cyber criminal goes. They may strike at a victim from any remote corner. Their modus operandi changes from time and time. In fact they bring new and innovative methods to achieve dubious means. In the process they make the task of cyber security challenging. There is need for increased expert manpower and resources to counter the growing menace.
While several steps have been taken by the law enforcing agencies to spread awareness on cyber crimes and online frauds by the police, people continue to fall prey to the cyber fraudsters.
Online fraud cases are increasing as people use more and more digital transactions. Many cases have surfaced in the Kashmir valley so far this year. Culprits exploit even educated people’s vulnerabilities with sugary offers and entreating calls and dupe them of money. Staying alert, not sharing bank details, avoiding friend requests etc are the key for staying safe.
Time and again, police issues caution that these fraudsters use the details and initiate an online transaction and ask for the OTP saying that it is required for completing the process of deferment of EMIs on loan or something else.
Once OTP is provided by a customer, money is siphoned away. The fraudster may also send a malicious link in SMS or email in connection with EMI which, if clicked, may install malware to compromise the mobile or computer, police said.
It should be borne in mind that the One Time Password (OTP), or PIN related to one’s bank account should never be shared with anyone as no bank asks for the same over phone or online.
It would be wise not to click on any links from unknown sources and it is better to ignore any offers online or otherwise. One would be better advised to thoroughly research any organizations or charities purporting to be raising money for the destitute.
It’s important to make users aware that they should not share sensitive information such as PIN, passwords, card details or log-in details with anyone. More important is to make people aware that the bank or its officials will never ask for such details under any circumstances. Even banks keep on sending messages to customers to be wary of such messages and never share details. As they hide their true identities using technology, nabbing the cyber criminals is difficult. There is need to increase the expertise of law enforcing agencies.
