Beware of fraud! Learn how to steer clear of online scams this Diwali
Cyber criminals are constantly on the lookout for unsuspecting victims, especially during the festive
season. This time of year sees an increase in online shopping and digital transactions, and cyber criminals are preparing for their kind of celebration. They send phishing emails and messages and create fake websites in an attempt to steal your personal information and money.
This Diwali, you can protect yourself with a little awareness and vigilance. Here are some common
types of cyberattacks and scams you may come across around this festive season and how to safeguard yourself.
Messages With Links On WhatsApp And SMS
You may receive SMS and text messages on WhatsApp from unidentified numbers claiming to be from a legitimate company. These messages have a link and receivers are asked to click the link to claim a
gift card.
However, in reality, the link installs malware that can track your activities. The best way to avoid gift card
scams is to never click a link from an unknown number. Always question, “Why would someone send me a gift card from an unidentified number?”
And nothing comes for ‘free’. Lastly, never enter personal details or share OTPs on any third-party
websites.
‘Free Courier’ Is A Scam!
Courier scams have been prevalent for some time now. People get contacted and they are told that they have an expensive gift from someone they know, however, to be able to get that delivered to them, they
must pay a fee.
Another type of scam involves a courier executive and a government law enforcement agency officer.
The courier executive tries to convince the potential victim that the company received a courier in their
name but the parcel contains illegal items, such as drugs, and has been seized at the
