Location: Anakapalli town
In a shocking incident highlighting the growing threat of cyber crime, the Revenue Divisional Officer (RDO) of Anakapalli received a gift coupon on his mobile app featuring the District Collector’s photo. Believing it to be genuine, he followed the instructions and sent a sum of Rs. 50,000 as requested. However, he soon realized that he had been deceived and promptly reported the incident to the police. Following an investigation, a cyber criminal named Nikil Goyan from Uttarakhand was arrested for his involvement in the scam.
This incident sheds light on the vulnerability of individuals to cyber criminals who are exploiting the advancements in technology for illicit activities. It is crucial for everyone to be vigilant and take necessary precautions to safeguard their financial and personal information.
Another case came to light when a young lady from Gandhinagar in Anakapalli received a discreet message promising a work-from-home opportunity that would enable her to earn money. Tempted by the offer, she fell victim to the scam and lost a significant amount of money. Realizing the gravity of the situation, she promptly reported the incident to the police.
The criminals involved in these scams are using various tactics to lure unsuspecting individuals into their traps. One common strategy employed by these fraudsters is to offer gift coupons and promise attractive rewards in return for a monetary investment. Victims are enticed with the possibility of earning substantial amounts of money, only to be duped later.
This recent surge in cyber crime serves as a reminder for the general public to exercise caution while conducting online transactions and sharing personal information. It is essential to remain vigilant and avoid disclosing sensitive details such as bank account numbers, ATM PINs, CVV codes, Aadhaar, and PAN information to unknown individuals.
Authorities are urging individuals to link their mobile numbers and email addresses with their bank accounts to stay informed about any suspicious transactions. Additionally, people should exercise caution when searching for job opportunities on online platforms. Legitimate employers do not ask for a joining fee, and any such request should be considered a red flag for potential fraud.
Financial institutions and insurance companies do not solicit personal information from their customers. Therefore, if anyone claiming to represent these entities asks for such details, it should be recognized as an attempt by cyber criminals to deceive individuals.
To combat the rising cyber crime rates, local law enforcement agencies are actively raising awareness about these scams and educating the public about preventive measures. By fostering a sense of awareness and caution, authorities aim to minimize the occurrence of cyber crimes in the district.
If you or someone you know falls victim to a cyber fraud, it is imperative to report the incident promptly. The district police department has established a helpline number, 1930, where victims can seek immediate assistance.
As technology continues to advance, so does the sophistication of cyber criminals. It is crucial for individuals to stay informed, remain vigilant, and adopt safe practices to protect themselves from falling victim to these scams.