Scammed By Cyber Frauds? Immediate Steps To Take and How To Secure Your Smartphones From Hackers

New Delhi: With the rapid growth of digital transactions, cybercrimes have become increasingly sophisticated, targeting individuals through various means, including phone hacking. Scammers are using advanced techniques to gain access to personal information and banking details, leading to significant financial losses. 

As per latest data, Indians suffered losses exceeding Rs 1750 crore due to cyber frauds between January and April, 2024. Over 740000 complaints were lodged on the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal, managed by the Ministry of Home Affairs, during this period. As per the data, an average of 7,000 cybercrime complaints were recorded daily, marking a significant rise of 113.7 per cent compared to the period between 2021 and 2023, and a 60.9 per cent increase from 2022 to 2023.

Here’s how you can stay safe from such cyber attacks and what immediate steps to take if you fall victim to a scam.

Common Tactics Used by Scammers

1. Phishing Links: Scammers often send deceptive links via SMS, email, or social media, pretending to be from legitimate sources such as banks or government agencies. These links may prompt you to enter personal information or download malicious software.
2. APK Files: Particularly on Android devices, scammers send APK (Android Package) files, which are installation files for apps. Once downloaded, these files can give hackers access to your phone, including your banking apps and personal data.
3. Fake Customer Service Calls: Scammers may call, pretending to be from your bank, and request that you perform certain actions, such as verifying your account through a link or downloading a specific app. These actions can lead to your device being compromised.
4. Social Engineering: Some hackers gather information about you from social media or public records and use that information to appear credible. They may know details such as your parents' names or recent transactions to convince you they are legitimate.

Also Read: Phone Cloned, OTPs Forwarded: How Delhi Techie Lost ₹1.3 Lakh from Two Credit Cards in Cyber Scam

How to Stay Safe from Cyber Attacks

1. Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Communications: Always be cautious of unsolicited emails, calls, or messages asking for personal or financial information. Banks and legitimate companies will never ask for sensitive information through insecure channels.
2. Verify the Source: If you receive a suspicious message or call, independently verify the source by contacting the organization directly through official channels. Do not use the contact information provided in the suspicious communication.
3. Avoid Clicking on Unknown Links: Never click on links from unknown or unverified sources. If a message seems urgent or offers something too good to be true, it’s likely a scam.
4. Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Enable two-factor authentication on all financial apps and accounts. This adds an extra layer of security, requiring a second form of verification beyond just your password.
5. Install Reliable Security Software: Ensure that your device has up-to-date security software that can detect and block malicious apps and files. Regularly scan your device for threats.
6. Regularly Update Your Device: Keep your phone’s operating system and apps updated to protect against vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit.
7. Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions. Report suspicious activity immediately.

 Immediate Steps to Take if You’re Scammed

1. Disconnect Your Device from the Internet: Immediately turn off your phone’s Wi-Fi and mobile data to prevent further unauthorized access.
2. Uninstall Suspicious Apps: If you suspect that a malicious app has been installed, uninstall it immediately from your device. Go to your phone’s settings and review the apps for any you don’t recognize.
3. Change Your Passwords: Use a different device to change the passwords of all your online accounts, especially banking and financial apps. Make sure to use strong, unique passwords.
4. Report the Fraud to Your Bank: Contact your bank or financial institution right away to report the fraud. Request them to block your cards and freeze your accounts to prevent further unauthorized transactions.
5. File a Complaint with Law Enforcement: Report the incident to the cybercrime cell through the official government website or by visiting your local cyber police station. Provide all relevant details, including the time of the attack, the nature of the scam, and any evidence you have.
6. Alert the Cybercrime Helpline: Call the cybercrime helpline at 1930 to report the incident and seek assistance. The sooner you report the scam, the higher the chances of recovering your funds.
7.  Monitor Your Credit Report: After being scammed, keep a close eye on your credit report for any unusual activity that could indicate identity theft.

 Conclusion

Cybercrimes, particularly those involving financial fraud, are on the rise. By staying vigilant and taking preventive measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to these scams. In the unfortunate event that you are scammed, acting quickly is crucial to mitigating the damage and potentially recovering lost funds.