HIGHLIGHTS

On May 1, the victim received a surprising call from a woman while at home.

Claiming to be a representative from his bank, she informed him about the opportunity to use reward points to reduce his credit card payments.

She assured him that her colleague would soon reach out to finalize the process.

Receiving a call from your bank about discounts or rewards can seem perfectly normal. However, it can also be a clever ruse. A man residing in Pune experienced this reality firsthand, losing a hefty sum of Rs 65,000 to a scam disguised as a credit card rewards program. Continue reading to uncover how this scam unfolded and learn precautions to prevent falling victim to similar frauds.

On May 1, while at home, the victim answered a call from a woman. She claimed to represent his bank and mentioned that he could utilize his reward points to get a discount on his outstanding credit card bills.

Trusting her words, he agreed to the offer. The woman informed him that her colleague would soon contact him to facilitate the process. Shortly thereafter, he received a call from a man who sent him a link via text message to update his reward points, as reported by TOI.

Upon receiving the link, the victim clicked on it and provided the necessary details to claim his credit points. In just a matter of moments, Rs 65,000 was transferred out of his account. Realizing his funds had vanished, he attempted to call both the woman and the man but discovered that the phone numbers were no longer reachable. It was at that moment he understood he had been scammed.

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How to Safeguard Yourself Against Scams

• Avoid sharing personal information such as OTPs or passwords with anyone.
• Refrain from clicking on unknown links sent through messages, emails, or any messaging platforms.
• Remember, legitimate bank officials will never request sensitive information during a phone call.
• If in doubt, always contact your bank directly using the official customer service number.

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In conclusion, while the allure of rewards and discounts can be enticing, it’s essential to remain vigilant and skeptical of unsolicited offers. Scammers exploit people’s trust and familiarity with financial institutions, making it crucial to stay informed and cautious. For your safety, prioritize verifying any unsolicited communication purporting to be from your bank. Always approach these situations with caution and do not hesitate to seek confirmation through official channels.

Criminals are continuously evolving their tactics, and being aware of these scams can prevent significant financial loss. By adhering to the safeguards outlined above, you can protect yourself from becoming the next victim.