By Vishwapati
Patna: Cybercriminals in Patna are now employing new tactics to deceive unsuspecting individuals. Recently, the cyber police station has issued an alert regarding a surge in fraud cases involving call merge technology. This new method allows criminals to effortlessly siphon money from victims’ bank accounts without their knowledge. Over the past two months, numerous people in Patna have fallen prey to this scam.
How Does Call Merge Fraud Operate?
The scam begins when cybercriminals call their victims, posing as bank officials, customer care representatives, or company agents. They engage the victim in conversation, enticing them with offers of special deals, banking services, job opportunities, or other benefits. During the call, another call appears on the victim’s phone as a waiting call. The fraudster instructs the victim to merge the calls into a conference, claiming it is from a colleague. In reality, the incoming call is an automated message from the bank containing a One-Time Password (OTP). Once the victim merges the calls, the fraudster listens to the OTP and gains immediate access to the victim’s bank account.
The Aftermath: Emptied Bank Accounts
Using the OTP, the fraudster logs into the victim’s bank account, conducts unauthorised transactions, and withdraws funds. By the time the victim realises what has happened, their bank account is often completely drained.
The New Tactics of Cybercriminals
The fraudsters typically pose as bank officials or company representatives. They instruct victims to merge incoming calls into a conference, enabling them to eavesdrop on automated OTP messages from the bank. With this information, they gain access to the victim’s account and carry out fraudulent transactions.
Appeal from the Cyber Police
The Patna Cyber Police Station has urged the public to remain vigilant. They have advised people not to merge calls at the request of unknown individuals and to never share OTPs, PINs, passwords, or any banking details with anyone. The police emphasised that banks never ask for such sensitive information over the phone.
How to Protect Yourself from Cyber Fraud
Be Skeptical of Unknown Callers: Do not trust unsolicited calls, especially those offering deals or services.
Avoid Merging Calls: If someone asks you to merge calls, exercise extreme caution.
Never Share Sensitive Information: Do not disclose OTPs, PINs, passwords, or banking details to anyone.
Report Suspicious Activity: If you receive a suspicious call, immediately contact the cyber helpline or local police.
Act Quickly if Scammed: If you suspect you have been defrauded, notify your bank and the cyber crime cell without delay.
The Importance of Awareness
Awareness is crucial in combating such scams. Cybercriminals are constantly devising new methods to exploit unsuspecting individuals. Staying alert and informed is the best defence against these evolving threats.
(The author, Vishwapati, is a senior journalist based in Patna. He may be contacted at vishwapati25@gmail.com)
