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Online scams are becoming increasingly concerning, putting anyone at risk of becoming the next target. Over the past few years, financial fraud has spiked with trading scams alone costing people crores of rupees. Recovering lost amount is often challenging with law enforcement able to assist in fewer than 10% cases. Many victims hesitate to report such incidents due to embarrassment, while in other cases, the lure of schemes promising quick wealth tempts individuals into risky investments. In the last few years, many individuals and groups have encountered some form of financial fraud—whether through UPI, credit cards, or other investment schemes. Scammers continuously refine their methods, making it increasingly difficult to identify and avoid these traps. Unlike many traditional crimes, online scams can not only threaten your finances but also damage your reputation and disrupt peace of mind. Today's fraudsters leverage advanced technology, including AI, to deceive people, affecting individuals across all demographics, from high-ranking officials to students.
Among the most common online scams are UPI fraud, sextortion, WhatsApp scams, AI voice cloning, link-based scams, OTP fraud, and deceptive investment schemes. While the government recognises this as a serious issue, its efforts require public support to be truly effective. Firstly, if you fall victim to cybercrime, report it promptly, as early action can increase your chances of recovery. However, statistics show that 90% of victims do not recover their money, underscoring the importance of staying vigilant. Secondly, exercise caution with digital transactions involving unknown parties, refrain from forwarding unverified messages, avoid clicking suspicious links, and be wary of unknown calls. Staying informed is crucial; as fraudsters develop new techniques, our alertness must adapt in response. Finally, by spreading awareness among friends and family, we can protect not only our finances but also our reputation and peace of mind. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and stay safe.
Thsachoba TS
thsachopa@gmail.com