Fake Customer Care Fraud
Pause, verify the request through an official channel and never act under pressure.
What is this fraud?
Criminals pose as customer-support staff for banks, airlines, e-commerce, wallets or other services.
How does it happen?
Fake helpline numbers are promoted through search results, ads or social media; the caller requests OTP, payment or remote access.
Warning signs
Number found in an unverified post/ad; request to download screen-sharing app; 'refund' collect request; demand for card details or OTP.
How to stay safe
Use contact details only from the official app, website, bill or card. Customer care does not need your PIN, OTP or remote control of your phone.
If you are a victim
End remote access, disconnect internet if necessary, notify the bank, call 1930, change credentials safely and preserve call/link/app details.
Evidence to preserve
Keep transaction IDs or UTRs, bank messages, screenshots, chats, emails, phone numbers, profiles, URLs, app details, and the exact date and time. Preserve original files without editing or deleting them.
Official reporting
For financial cyber fraud, call 1930 immediately, notify your bank or payment provider, and file a complaint through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal ↗. General technical advisories are available from CERT-In ↗.