Online scams continue to evolve, with cybercriminals constantly innovating their techniques. In response, the government and agencies like Cyber Dost are actively working to educate and alert the public about emerging threats. The focus is to prevent people from falling prey to sophisticated scams. The latest warning from Cyber Dost highlights the ‘NRI Gift Scam,’ detailing how fraudsters are manipulating individuals.
Fraudsters create fake identities, posing as NRIs, to establish relationships with potential victims. They promise valuable gifts to gain trust and then fabricate stories about customs issues, demanding money. Cyber Dost not only explains the mechanics of this scam but also provides guidance on how to avoid becoming a victim. Scammers initiate contact through social media, entice victims with gifts, and then request money for customs or other fabricated charges.
To protect themselves, individuals should avoid sending money for customs fees. Suspicious messages requesting funds should be blocked and reported. If you believe you have been targeted by this scam, or if you are already a victim, immediately contact the cybercrime helpline at 1930 or report the incident online at cybercrime.gov.in.