In today’s digital age, online scams are rising faster than ever.
From fake investment offers to phishing calls, cybercriminals are using new tricks every day.
If you use the Internet — even just for UPI, WhatsApp, or social media — this guide is for you.
1️⃣ Phishing Scams
What it is: Fake emails, messages, or websites that look real (like your bank or government site).
Example: You get an SMS — “Your KYC will expire today! Click here to update.”
How to avoid:
- Never click on unknown links.
- Always check the sender’s email ID or website URL.
- Visit the official website directly instead of using shared links.
2️⃣ UPI Fraud & Payment App Scams
What it is: Scammers send “payment request” links instead of sending money.
Example: Someone says, “Main paisa bhej raha hoon, request accept karo.”
How to avoid:
- Never approve a payment request from strangers.
- Use UPI apps like Google Pay or PhonePe only for trusted contacts.
- Enable app lock and SMS alerts for all transactions.
3️⃣ Fake Online Shopping Websites
What it is: Duplicate eCommerce sites offering heavy discounts but never delivering products.
Example: “iPhone 15 for ₹10,999 – 90% off sale!”
How to avoid:
- Check reviews and website domain (like .in or .com).
- Prefer trusted portals like Amazon, Flipkart, or official brand sites.
- Use Cash on Delivery if unsure.
4️⃣ Job & Work-From-Home Scams
What it is: Fraudsters promise easy online jobs and demand “registration” or “software” fees.
Example: “Earn ₹10,000 per day – No experience needed!”
How to avoid:
- Genuine employers never ask for money upfront.
- Verify company details on LinkedIn or official websites.
5️⃣ Lottery & Prize Scams
What it is: You get an email or call saying you won a big prize — just pay a small “processing fee.”
Example: “Congratulations! You won ₹25 lakh in KBC lottery.”
How to avoid:
- Remember: If you didn’t enter a contest, you can’t win it.
- Never share personal or banking details.
6️⃣ Investment & Crypto Scams
What it is: Fake apps or Telegram groups promising double returns.
Example: “Invest ₹5,000, get ₹50,000 in 10 days.”
How to avoid:
- Don’t invest without researching the company.
- Check SEBI or RBI registration details.
- Avoid random investment links or crypto groups.
7️⃣ Fake Tech Support Calls
What it is: Scammers pretend to be from Microsoft, Google, or your bank’s IT team.
Example: “Your laptop has a virus, give remote access to fix it.”
How to avoid:
- No real company calls you randomly.
- Never give remote access to unknown people.
- Disconnect and verify from the official helpline.
8️⃣ Social Media Impersonation
What it is: Fake profiles pretending to be your friend or relative.
Example: “Hi, this is my new number — can you send ₹2,000?”
How to avoid:
- Always confirm with a phone call.
- Report and block suspicious accounts.
9️⃣ Online Loan Apps Scam
What it is: Fake loan apps that demand your data and threaten harassment later.
How to avoid:
- Download loan apps only from the Google Play Store or RBI-approved NBFCs.
- Read reviews before sharing your documents.
🔟 Dating & Relationship Scams
What it is: Scammers emotionally manipulate users to send money or gifts.
Example: “I’m stuck abroad, please help me with ₹10,000.”
How to avoid:
- Be cautious with online relationships.
- Never share financial or personal information with strangers.
💡 Bonus Tip: Always Stay Cyber Aware
- Keep your passwords strong and unique.
- Enable 2-Factor Authentication (2FA) everywhere.
- Regularly update your devices and apps.
- Follow trusted sources like CyberDost.in for cyber safety tips.
🔗 Related Posts
- “5 Best Free Cyber Safety Courses in India”
- “How to Protect Your UPI from Online Fraud”
- “Digital Literacy Basics: Learn to Stay Safe Online”
📣 Final Words
Online safety starts with awareness.
If you ever face any suspicious activity, report it immediately at cybercrime.gov.in or your nearest cyber cell.
👉 Stay Safe. Stay Smart. Stay CyberDost.