Jaipur, October 14 (Daily Kiran): The Rajasthan Police Cyber Crime Branch has issued a major cyber alert warning citizens about a surge in online frauds carried out in the name of popular e-commerce platforms. Cybercriminals are reportedly using fake websites, WhatsApp messages, and bogus customer care numbers to steal users’ banking details and OTPs under the guise of refunds, offers, or prize schemes.
According to Vikas Sharma, Deputy Inspector General (DIG), Cyber Crime, scammers are continuously evolving their tactics to exploit people’s trust in major e-commerce brands. He urged citizens to stay vigilant and be aware of four key types of online fraud that are currently most prevalent.
Four Common Types of E-Commerce Scams
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Fake Websites and Apps: Fraudsters create counterfeit e-commerce websites or apps to collect users’ login and payment details.
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Social Media and WhatsApp Traps: Links promising fake lucky draws or unbelievable discounts are circulated via WhatsApp or social media to trick users into clicking.
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Refund Scam Calls: Scammers impersonate customer service agents, calling users about fake cancellations or refunds and requesting confidential OTPs or banking information.
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Fake Customer Care Numbers on Google: Fraudsters post fake customer service numbers on search engines, luring victims into sharing personal and financial data.
Five Essential Safety Tips from Rajasthan Police
The Cyber Crime Branch has advised citizens to follow these five key safety measures to avoid falling prey to such frauds:
★ Use Only Official Platforms: Shop only through verified and official websites or mobile apps of e-commerce companies.
★ Never Share OTP or Bank Details: Do not disclose your OTP, PIN, or account details to anyone, even if they claim to be from customer service.
★ Avoid Unknown Links: Refrain from clicking on suspicious or unknown links shared via social media or messaging apps.
★ Verify Contact Numbers: Do not rely on customer care numbers found on Google; use only the official contact details available on the brand’s app or website.
★ Ignore Unrealistic Offers: Avoid sharing your personal information in response to messages about prizes, lucky draws, or cash rewards.
How to Report Cyber Fraud
DIG Sharma advised that anyone who falls victim to cyber fraud should immediately call the national cyber helpline at 1930 or report the incident to the nearest police or cyber police station.
Complaints can also be lodged through the official cybercrime reporting portal: https://cybercrime.gov.in.
The Rajasthan Police emphasized that public awareness and prompt reporting remain the strongest tools against growing online scams in the digital marketplace.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
