Hi, this is your bank manager Rohit. Am I talking to Miss Meera? Yes, Meera speaking. Good evening Meera, This is a call from your bank. It looks like there is some suspicious activity going on in your credit card. There is a big transaction of Rs 20,000. Did you do this transaction? No sir, I am not aware of this.
Aah, it looks like your credit card is being misused. You must immediately stop this. I am sending a link, as a user you must click the link to stop any further misuse. Trusting the caller, Meera followed the instructions. Within minutes, she lost all her bank deposits.
We have all witnessed someone like Meera around us, who have lost their money to such scams. Scammers create fear and confusion and then trick people. So beware and follow these steps to protect yourself from losing your money.
1. Know the scam
More often, these trinkets call themselves representatives of the bank, police or government. They create fear, panic and confusion by making you believe that you have either lost or are going to lose your money. This is usually followed by fake sms, calls and OTPs. Remember, banks never ask for Pin, OTP or CVV.
2. Always Verify Before You Act
Let us say you got such a call. What should you do now? Hang up. Reach out to the bank and inform them of the situation. Do not trust and act on the details reflected on the caller ids. These can be faked.
3. Your bank details are only for you
Millions of people lose their money because they continue to share their full card details, Pin, OTP, CVV over the phone. Never do that. Stay alert, verify, and never share sensitive details—your vigilance is the defence against these activities.
From time to time, it is recommended to change your password. Never write the pin or the password on your credit card.
4. Turn on the notification
Is your email alert and sms notifications turned on for all your transactions. If not, then get it on immediately. These notifications are life savers when your bank details are compromised. They notify you immediately and quick action can be preventive.
5. Spread Awareness
If your friend, family, colleague or acquaintance is tricked, educate others through their stories. Post on social media platforms the process so that others are cautious and do not repeat the same mistake. Knowledge and being alert is the key.
Just last month, 28-year-old Rahul from Pune received a similar call. The caller claimed to be from his bank’s “fraud department” and asked for his OTP. Rahul remembered reading that banks never ask for such details. He refused, hung up, and called his bank directly. The bank confirmed it was a scam attempt. Rahul not only saved his money but also reported the number, helping authorities investigate further.
The difference between Meera and Rahul was awareness.
Read more: Top Business Magazine
