With the rise of online transactions and digital business, cyber fraud has become a common occurrence. Scammers use various tactics to trick people into giving away their personal information and money. If you become a victim of cyber fraud, it is important to act quickly to minimize the damage and increase the chances of recovering any lost funds. The Union Home Ministry has issued helpline number 1930 to help people become aware and protect their money.
Here are some tips on how to protect yourself from cyber fraud:
Do not share personal information:
Never share your personal or financial information with anyone, especially over the phone or email. This includes your bank account details, social security number, and passwords.
Verify the source:
Always verify the source of the email, message, or phone call before sharing any information or clicking on any links. Scammers often use fake identities to trick people.
Use strong passwords:
Use strong passwords that are difficult to guess and change them regularly. Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts.
Enable two-factor authentication:
Enable two-factor authentication on your accounts to add an extra layer of security. This requires a verification code sent to your phone or email to log in.
Keep software updated:
Keep your computer, phone, and other devices updated with the latest software and security patches.
Be cautious of unsolicited emails or messages:
If you receive an unsolicited email or message from someone you don't know, be cautious. Do not click on any links or download any attachments until you have verified the sender's identity.
Don't trust caller ID:
Scammers can easily spoof caller ID to make it look like they are calling from a legitimate source. If someone calls you asking for personal information, hang up and call the company directly to verify their identity.
Use a secure network:
When making online transactions or accessing sensitive information, use a secure network. Avoid using public Wi-Fi, which can be easily hacked.
Monitor your accounts regularly:
Check your bank and credit card statements regularly for any unauthorized transactions. If you notice anything suspicious, report it to your bank or financial institution immediately.
Educate yourself:
Stay up-to-date on the latest scams and fraud tactics. Educate yourself on how to spot them and what to do if you become a victim.
If you become a victim of cyber fraud, here are the steps to follow:
Call helpline number 1930 within 1 hour of the fraud:
The helpline will help freeze your account and start the process of recovering your lost money.
File a police report:
Contact your local law enforcement agency and file a report of the cybercrime. Be sure to provide as much detail as possible, including any evidence you may have.
Contact your bank or financial institution:
Notify your bank or financial institution as soon as possible to report the fraud and ask them to freeze your account to prevent any further unauthorized transactions.
Contact the credit bureaus:
Contact one of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion) and request a fraud alert be placed on your credit report.
Remember that prevention is always better than cure. Stay vigilant and protect yourself from cyber fraud by following these tips. If you do become a victim, call helpline number 1930 immediately to increase your chances of recovering your lost money.
