Beware: Scamsters impersonating CBI officers on the prowl
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has issued a strong warning to the public about scammers impersonating CBI officers, and using the agency’s logo to deceive the gullible. The agency took to its social media accounts to share the warning.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has issued a strong warning to the public about scammers impersonating CBI officers, and using the agency’s logo to deceive the gullible. The agency took to its social media accounts to share the warning.
The scammers use WhatsApp to carry out their operations, the display picture is generally the CBI logo. They send fake documents such as warrants and summons in the name of the victim, using fake signatures of the CBI officers. They threaten the intended victim, that if he or she does not comply with their demands, they will be taking legal action against them.
Cashing panic of parents:
Scammers call the victim impersonating CBI officers and tell something that will create panic. Parents of young children, who are living away from the house are specially targeted. The parents are told that the child is in trouble legally and the case can be waived off if a certain amount of money is transferred.
The fraudsters fabricate a situation implicating the victims legally. For example, they will claim to have arrested two individuals for a fraud involving Rs 20 lakhs and falsely accuse your child of being an accomplice. They will resort to threatening the victim with legal problems if money is not paid immediately. The victims are prompted to act quickly and in the spur of the moment. By the time, some clarification is established, it is usually too late because scammers abscond without a trace.
CBI cautions public
CBI’s post states: “Please be alert about scams misusing the names and designations of senior CBI officers. Fake documents carrying signature of CBI Officers, including Director, CBI coupled with fake warrants/summons are circulated to commit frauds, especially on the Internet/emails/WhatsApp etc.”
It further adds: “Publicly available CBI logo is misused by some criminals as their display picture to make calls, mainly through WhatsApp, to extort money. Public is advised to be cautious and not fall prey to such scams. Any such attempt should be immediately reported to the local Police.”
The agency advised the public to exercise caution in dealing with any communication via calls or WhatsApp calls. Genuine CBI officials will not ask for any personal or financial information over the phone or via email.
How to Avoid the WhatsApp-CBI Scam: Essential Tips
Remain Vigilant: Be wary of unsolicited messages, especially those claiming to be from the CBI or any other law enforcement agency.
Verify the Caller: Always cross-check the authenticity of any communication by contacting the concerned authorities through official channels.
Beware of fake links: Do not click on links or attachment sent by unknown and suspicious senders. It could be malicious software.
Protect Personal Information: Never share personal or financial details with unknown individuals or through unverified platforms.
Report Suspicious Activity: If you encounter a suspicious message or call claiming to be from the CBI, report it to the local police immediately.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Two factor authentication is the best way to keep your information safe.
Upon receiving a suspicious call
When you receive a suspicious call, must report it to WhatsApp. It can be done by clicking on the three dots during the call and selecting ‘Report’. Reporting to the local police is also essential so that the authorities can track the fraudsters and save others from falling prey to the scam. The phone number should be blocked to prevent future calls.
Digital safety is important:
Children as well as senior citizens should be educated on the potential threats of receiving phone calls from known sources. They need to be instructed about online safety and advised not to share any sensitive and personal information with strangers online. The dangers of possible scams will raise awareness among them and encourage them avoid such situations.
Rather than resorting to panic-driven actions, we need to stop for a minute and think about whether the situation is real or a possible scam.