Don’t get intimidated by cyber criminals in disguise

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The cyber cell of the Mumbai police identified a new trend in digital fraud where crooks create Telegram channels in the names of police stations and call citizens while impersonating officials. False cases and accusations create a panic and are used to extort money from targets.

Recently, a septuagenarian was duped of Rs 3.5 lakh by cyber crooks using a similar trick. The FIR stated that the 70-year-old businessman received a call from somebody claiming to be an officer attached to Lucknow Customs.

The caller told the businessman that someone had delivered a package from Myanmar to Lucknow containing clothing, a laptop, 20 passports and 150 grams of mephedrone. The businessman was scared after he was told to go to the police station and record his statement.

The fraudsters made the man share his bank account details by showing fake documents and after he did, he was asked to send them Rs 3.5 lakh. This edit space has traced the many ways in which cyber-crime is evolving, the new twists and turns used on many digital platforms to con persons of their money.

Look out for red flags when certain claims are made by callers, and don't be afraid to ask questions. Why would the cops call somebody about a parcel? They certainly cannot threaten anybody, and when ultimatums are issued, alarm bells should start ringing. Police procedure follows a set pattern and nobody, least of all the authorities, can tell you to divulge bank details.

If you are unsure, consult a trusted friend or expert or turn to the Internet. Chances are you may unearth an insidious pattern. Reaching out to citizens via Telegram channels and making tall claims to extort money screams fraud from the very beginning. Stay alert, raise counter questions and do not be intimidated.