Call Merging Scam: A new way that can empty your bank balance
New Delhi: After digital arrests and OTP-based fraud, now another new scam has come to light, which can empty your bank account. The name of this new scam is the Call Merging Scam, and in this, money can disappear from your account even without any OTP. Cyber criminals are constantly targeting people in new ways, and this time, their method is even more clever. Today, we will tell you how this scam works and what precautions you should take to avoid it.
How does the call-merging scam work?
In this scam, first, you get a call from a stranger. The person calling claims that he got his number from one of your friends. The scammer has a normal conversation with you and tries to convince you that there is a special relationship between the two of you. Then he tells you that your friend is calling from another number and asks you to merge that call.
In fact, the second call that comes during this time is from your bank, sending you an OTP for some transaction. Since both calls are merged, you unknowingly share that OTP with the scammer. As soon as the scammer gets the OTP, he withdraws money from your account. Thus, without any active effort on your part, your bank balance gets emptied.
Why is the call merging scam dangerous?
This scam is even more dangerous because it does not use fake websites or emails like phishing scams. Instead, it is done by using a normal phone function, i.e. call merging, to deceive people. Scammers often access your number from social media or leaked databases. Once they get the number, they become successful in using such fraudulent methods.
Most people do not understand that they are unknowingly giving away their bank account information. When someone they know comes forward and unknowingly asks them to do something wrong, people do not suspect it. This is the reason why this scam is spreading rapidly.
Ways to avoid call merging scams
Some important precautions should be taken to avoid this fraud:
- Do not merge calls from unknown numbers: Never merge calls from unknown numbers. If someone asks you to do so, refuse and check their identity properly.
- Contact your friend directly: If someone claims that your friend wants to call you, first contact your friend yourself and make sure whether he really wants to call you.
- Never share OTP: If you receive an OTP without any transaction, it may be a sign of fraud. Do not share your OTP with anyone under any circumstances.
- Report suspicious activities: If you suspect any suspicious activity, immediately report to the Cyber Crime Helpline (1930) and register your complaint.
What to do if you become a victim of fraud?
If you have become a victim of this scam, follow these steps immediately:
- Contact the bank: First of all call your bank and ask them to stop unauthorized transactions.
- Report to the Cyber Crime Helpline: You can register your complaint on the Cyber Crime Helpline (1930) or can also register a complaint on cybercrime.gov.in.
- Keep an eye on your bank statement: Check your bank statement regularly for any suspicious activity and report it immediately.
Conclusion
The call merging scam is a new and dangerous method that can withdraw money from your account without any OTP. In such a situation, you should be alert at all times and beware of any unknown call. To avoid this type of fraud, it is very important to follow the security measures mentioned above.
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Utkarsh works as a Sub-Editor at 1Tak News. Technology and gadgets are his main beats, and he also tracks automobiles. A graduate of Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth, he began his journalism career in 2023 and has built experience across digital media platforms like 1Tak. Besides technology, he also has considerable experience covering national affairs, politics, research, and international news.
