CERT-IN stressed the importance of resisting pressure tactics, noting, “Legitimate law-enforcement agencies will never pressure you into sending money immediately.” The agency suggested, “Take a moment to assess the situation calmly before responding. Avoid sharing personal information and never disclose sensitive personal or financial details over the phone or video calls, especially to unknown numbers.”In its advisory, the cybersecurity agency emphasised the need for people to stay “vigilant and informed” to protect themselves from this “emerging cyber threat.”Prime Minister Modi, addressing the issue of “digital arrest” in his “Mann ki Baat” radio programme, highlighted that the scam has impacted all sections of society. He urged the public to adopt the mantra of “stop, think and take action” when confronted with potential scams. The Prime Minister noted that investigative agencies are working with states to address the issue, adding that awareness is the most effective form of protection. He encouraged people to call the national cyber-security helpline number 1930 or report crimes at www.cybercrime.gov.in.Additionally, CERT-IN’s advisory covered other common scams, including “phishing scams,” where scammers use emails or messages that appear to be from trusted organisations by mimicking their logos and branding; “lottery and prize scams,” where victims are informed they have won a large sum of money but must pay a processing fee or taxes to claim the prize, exploiting “hope and greed.”“Emotional manipulation scams” occur on online dating and communication apps, where scammers build emotional connections with victims and then solicit money for emergencies, such as medical treatment, often requesting funds be sent via cryptocurrency.The advisory also listed several other common scams, such as “job scams,” “tech support scams,” “investment scams,” “fake charity appeal scams,” “loan or card scams,” and “mistaken money-transfer scams.”In “phone scams,” victims receive calls or messages from individuals posing as representatives from a telecom regulatory body, claiming there is an “issue” with their service and seeking one-time passwords (OTPs) or banking information for identity verification.CERT-IN also highlighted “parcel scams,” which are similar to “digital arrest” tactics. In these scams, victims are falsely informed that a drugs-laden parcel in their name has been seized and that they face arrest or legal consequences unless they pay a fine.The advisory calls on the public to exercise caution and remain informed, underscoring that such vigilance is essential for protection against these evolving cyber threats.
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