Trick 5- Fake Customer Helpline Numbers
- Fraudsters post fake helpline numbers on websites and social media, claiming to be official support from banks, airlines, or e-commerce platforms.
- Victims searching for support call the fake number and are convinced they are speaking to real customer service agents.
- Scammers phish for credit card details, OTPs, and UPI PINs, leading to unauthorized withdrawals.
- In some cases, they ask for payments as “service fees” for fake refunds or issue resolutions.
5. Fake Customer Support Scams
Steps of the Fraud:
- Fake Helpline Numbers Posted Online
- Scammers posted fake customer support numbers on websites and social media, claiming to be from banks, airlines, or online shopping portals.
- Victims Call Seeking Help
- Unsuspecting victims, searching for support, call the fake numbers for issues like refunds or card problems.
- Impersonation of Customer Support Executives
- Scammers pretend to be official support agents and ask for personal information and banking details.
- Theft of Money or Personal Data
- Victims are tricked into sharing credit card details, UPI PINs, or OTPs, leading to money being stolen.
- Rise in Complaints & Warnings Issued
- Telecom authorities and banks issued alerts, urging users to verify numbers through official websites.