‘You’ve got mail’: Cybercriminals’ new method to target unsuspecting victims

Team Udayavani, Jul 10, 2024, 11:58 AM IST

Bengaluru: Cyber fraudsters, who previously used methods such as gift scams, OTPs, KYC, and explicit photos and videos, have now devised a new way to steal money from the public.

Cybercriminals are now using registered mail to deceive people. A red registered letter from the Indian Postal Service arrives at your home. When you open it, you find a registered coupon with the emblem of the Government of India and an application form. The coupon, written in English, invites you to scratch and win a vehicle or various gifts.

Upon scratching, it reveals that you have won ₹12.80 lakh and provides an SMS code. Using this code allows the cyber fraudsters to instantly siphon off money from your bank account.

Fraud through Scanners:

One of the papers in the registered letter sent by fraudsters contains a scanner. It instructs you to scan it and call a helpline number written at the bottom. If you scan it or call the helpline number, the fraudsters gain access to your bank account and steal your money.

The police have urged the public to verify any registered post arriving at their office or home and follow the instructions carefully.

In recent years, cyber fraud cases have surged across the country, including in Bengaluru, with over 10,000 cases being reported annually. Innocent people are losing crores of rupees to these scams. The latest cyber fraud technique has become a headache not only for the public but also for the police.

Police alert citizens via WhatsApp status:

The state police have posted a video on their WhatsApp status, highlighting the new cyber fraud method and urging the public to be vigilant.