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Scams A–Z
20 common scams explained in plain language: how each one works, the red flags, and exactly what to do if it reaches you.
AI voice family emergency scam
A caller sounds exactly like your child, grandchild or relative, says they are in trouble (arrest, accident, kidnapping) and needs money now. Hang up and call t…
SMS, WhatsAppBank SMS phishing scam
A text that looks like it is from your bank says your account will be blocked or reward points will expire, and gives a link. Banks do not ask you to update det…
SMS, WhatsAppElectricity bill disconnection scam
A message says your electricity will be cut tonight because your last bill was not updated, and asks you to call an 'electricity officer'. Check only on your po…
Website/App, WhatsAppFake army officer marketplace scam
On sites like OLX, Quikr or Facebook Marketplace, a scammer pretends to be an army or paramilitary officer who is being transferred and must sell a car, bike or…
Phone call, Website/AppFake customer care number scam
Scammers post fake customer care numbers for banks, airlines, delivery and e-commerce companies on search results, map listings and social media, then 'help' yo…
Website/App, Social mediaFake shopping website scam
Scammers build shops that look real, advertise huge discounts on social media, take your money and send nothing, or a cheap fake. If a deal looks too good to be…
WhatsApp, SMSGovernment scheme subsidy scam
Scammers use the names of real or made-up government schemes to promise money, subsidies or free items, then ask for a fee, your bank details or an OTP. Governm…
Website/App, Social mediaInstant loan app scam
Unregulated apps offer quick loans with no paperwork, then take large hidden fees, demand far more than you borrowed, and threaten you using your phone's contac…
SMS, Phone callKYC update scam
Scammers pretend to be your bank, wallet or telecom company and say your account will be blocked unless you update KYC through their link, call or app. Your ban…
WhatsApp, Phone callLottery or prize scam
You are told you won a lottery, lucky draw, car or cash prize, often in the name of a TV show, brand or government, and must pay a fee, tax or charge to receive…
Website/App, WhatsAppMatrimonial scam
A scammer makes a fake profile on a matrimonial site, builds a quick emotional bond and talks about marriage, then asks for money. Never send money to someone y…
Telegram, WhatsAppMoney mule account scam
Criminals pay or trick people into letting them use their bank account, UPI or SIM to move stolen money. Never sell, rent or 'lend' your account, because you ca…
SMS, WhatsAppParcel or customs fee scam
A message claims your parcel is stuck and asks you to update your address or pay a small customs or redelivery fee through a link, which steals your card or ban…
WhatsApp, Website/AppQR code payment scam
A 'buyer', 'refund agent' or fake poster gives you a QR code to scan, and when you enter your PIN, money leaves your account. You never need to scan a QR code o…
Phone call, SMSSIM swap OTP scam
Criminals collect your personal details, then get a duplicate SIM for your number so your OTPs and bank alerts go to them. If your phone suddenly loses network …
Video call, WhatsAppSextortion video call scam
A stranger, often posing as an attractive person, video calls you, shows explicit content, records your face, and then threatens to send the clip to your family…
WhatsApp, TelegramStock tips WhatsApp group scam
You are added to an invite-only WhatsApp or Telegram group where a self-styled market expert shares stock tips and other members post big profits, then you are …
In person, WhatsAppStudy abroad agent scam
Some agents take large fees for admission, visa and jobs abroad, then give forged admission letters, place students in fake colleges, or disappear. Verify the u…
Phone call, Website/AppTech support remote access scam
A pop-up, call or email says your computer has a virus or you were charged for a subscription, and pushes you to call a number and let a 'technician' connect to…
Phone call, WhatsAppUPI collect request scam
A scammer posing as a buyer, refund agent or helper sends you a payment request or QR code and says you must approve it or enter your PIN to receive money. Your…
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