Think before you click!

Advanced technology, meant to make life easier, has become a powerful tool for cybercriminals. Unknown fraudsters are now targeting ordinary people with new and sophisticated scams, exploiting fear and hope to steal hard-earned money. In just the first eight months of this year, cybercriminals in Telangana have swindled a staggering Rs. 606 crore, highlighting the seriousness of the threat.

According to police records, 14,739 victims have officially reported these scams. Experts believe the actual number could be several times higher, as many hesitate to come forward fearing embarrassment or doubting justice. Students, IT professionals, and homemakers are among the most common targets.

How cybercriminals operate

Cybercriminals have moved beyond traditional OTP scams. They now use social engineering to exploit people’s vulnerabilities. They create attractive WhatsApp and Telegram groups, advertising opportunities like “Work from Home” or “Earn Easy Money.” Initially, they assign small tasks such as liking YouTube videos or posting Google reviews, paying modest amounts. Once trust is established, they lure victims into making large investments - only to disappear with all the money.

Fake trading and investment apps

Many scams revolve around fake trading platforms or investment apps. Criminals ask victims to invest small amounts at first, showing instant returns on these apps to build trust. They even allow withdrawals of minor amounts to make the scheme appear legitimate. Once victims are convinced, they invest lakhs, and the app suddenly stops functioning - along with the money.

Digital blackmail scams

These are among the most frightening. Scammers pose as officials from the police, customs, or CBI, calling victims to threaten them. They claim illegal activities are linked to the victim’s Aadhaar or that parcels containing drugs are registered in their name. They demand money to “resolve” the issue, often presenting fake ID cards or arrest warrants to intimidate victims. Many victims pay hundreds of thousands of rupees out of fear.

Building trust and exploiting it

Scammers often show screenshots claiming huge earnings to encourage other group members to invest. Once trust is established through chats and personal interaction, they manipulate victims with larger promises. Some fraud groups even give “small tasks” initially, paying Rs. 100-200 per task, before eventually luring victims into major investments.

Challenges in recovery

Catching cybercriminals remains a major challenge. According to the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau, cybercrime cases have been steadily increasing, with over 20,000 cases currently under investigation. Many criminals operate from remote Indian regions like Jamtara, Mewat, and Kolkata, and sometimes from abroad, including Dubai and Cambodia, complicating investigations.

Arrests and recovery

Police have arrested hundreds of cybercriminals this year. In a recent operation, Hyderabad police nabbed 36 scammers in Gujarat. However, recovery of stolen money remains low: only 15-18% of the Rs. 606 crore lost has been frozen, mainly due to delayed complaints.

How people can protect themselves

• Avoid clicking suspicious links in SMS, WhatsApp, or Telegram messages.

• Do not trust offers promising easy money or high returns in a short time.

• Be cautious with trading and investment schemes.

Verify before responding

If someone calls claiming to be from the police or any government department, hang up immediately and contact your nearest police station. No government agency will ever demand money over the phone.

If you fall victim to a scam, report it immediately to the National Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930. Filing a complaint within the first hour increases the chances of freezing the criminals’ accounts.

In the digital world, caution is key. Cybercriminals prey on fear and greed, but awareness and quick action can protect your money. Sharing information about scams also helps prevent others from falling into the same traps.