Hi, my friend recently received a WhatsApp message from someone pretending to be an old acquaintance, saying they accidentally sent ₹10,000 and urgently needed it back. They clicked a link, entered a code, and lost money. Is there any way to recover it? What should they do now? - Arundhati A. (Pune)
This scam called the “emergency cashback” trick targets kind-hearted individuals, particularly those who may be anxious or stressed. Here's how it operates:
- The Message: You receive a text, often via WhatsApp, from someone pretending to be a friend or acquaintance (they might even use a fake profile picture).
- The "Mistake": They claim they accidentally sent you a large amount of money, usually ₹10,000, and urgently request you to return it. They might fabricate an emergency, like a hospital bill, to create a sense of urgency.
- The False Helpfulness: They then send you a seemingly helpful link, urging you to enter a code to "return" the money.
Here's the Catch!
That link is actually a trap! Clicking on it and entering any code could give scammers access to your bank account details or trick you into unknowingly transferring money to them.
Don't fall for their emotional pleas!
Watch out for these red flags:
- Urgency: Scammers press you to act quickly, leaving you little time to think clearly.
- Poor Grammar & Spelling: These messages often contain numerous typos and grammatical errors.
- Unknown Sender: If the message is from someone you don’t know well, be especially cautious.
What if I've Been Scammed?
If you’ve clicked the link or entered any information, act swiftly:
- Contact Your Bank: Immediately call your bank and report the incident. They can block any suspicious transactions or help you recover lost funds.
- Change Your Login Details: Update your online banking passwords and enable two-factor authentication for added security.
- Report the Scam: Report the phone number or profile that contacted you to the platform (WhatsApp, Facebook, etc.). This helps prevent others from falling victim.
Stay Safe Out There!
Here are some tips to avoid falling prey to such scams:
- Verify: If someone claims they’ve sent you money by mistake, confirm it directly with them through a trusted phone call or text (not a reply to the original message).
- Avoid Unverified Links: Don’t click on links or download attachments from unknown senders.
- Trust Your Instincts: Don’t share personal or financial information if something feels suspicious.
Remember, you're not alone!
If you suspect a scam or have any questions about online safety, contact your bank or a trusted financial advisor. They're there to help!
Share Your Story & Help Others!
Have you encountered a similar scam? Share your experience in the comments below. By raising awareness, we can protect people from falling victim to these cunning tricks.
