Learn to spot scams

Short guides to the scams Indians see most. सबसे आम ठगी को पहचानें।

Phishing & fake KYC

Messages say your bank account, PAN or SIM will be blocked unless you “update KYC” through a link. Real banks never send KYC links by SMS. Open your bank's official app instead.

UPI collect & PIN scams

Entering your UPI PIN always sends money. You never need a PIN to receive money. Decline unexpected collect requests.

Fake customer support & screen sharing

Scammers post fake helpline numbers and ask you to install AnyDesk, TeamViewer or an APK. These apps give them control of your phone. Search support numbers only on official websites.

“Digital arrest”

Callers pretend to be CBI, police, customs or TRAI and keep you on a video call, demanding money to “clear your name”. No Indian agency arrests anyone on a video call. Hang up and call 1930.

QR code risks

A QR code can hide any link or a payment request. Scanning to receive money is always a scam. Check the destination before you open it.

Suspicious APK files

“Bank app”, “electricity bill” or “wedding invite” APKs sent on WhatsApp often steal SMS and OTPs. Install apps only from Google Play and keep Play Protect on.

Task & part-time job scams

You are paid small amounts to like videos or write reviews, then asked to “invest” to unlock bigger tasks. The money never comes back.

If something already happened

  1. Call 1930 (National Cyber Crime Helpline) as fast as possible.
  2. Call your bank from the number in its official app and block cards / UPI.
  3. Report at cybercrime.gov.in with screenshots and transaction IDs.
  4. Uninstall any app a stranger asked you to install.
  5. Change passwords from a trusted device and turn on two-step verification.