Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 18 May 2024
A new wave of financial cyber fraud has emerged, exploiting the popular messaging app WhatsApp. Cybercriminals are using the profile pictures of senior government officials to send deceptive messages aimed at extracting gift cards from unsuspecting recipients. These scams involve sending WhatsApp messages from random accounts, displaying images of high-ranking officials as the profile display picture to lend credibility to their fraudulent requests.
Andaman and Nicobar Police have issued an advisory to protect the public from falling victim to these scams. Gift cards, also known as gift vouchers, are prepaid stored-value money cards typically issued by retailers. These cards are commonly used as alternatives to cash for purchases within specific stores or related businesses. The fraudsters’ primary targets are gift cards from popular e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Flipkart.
In light of these developments, the police recommend the following precautions:
1. Verify Authenticity: If you receive a WhatsApp message from an unfamiliar number, verify the authenticity by checking with the person’s known contact number or mutual acquaintances.
2. Direct Confirmation: Call and confirm directly with the concerned senior official if you receive any money-related request.
3. Scrutinise Urgency: Be wary of messages that exhibit an unusual sense of urgency, a common tactic used by fraudsters.
4. Avoid Unknown Messages: Refrain from responding to messages from unknown contacts on messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal.
5. Protect Your Images: Limit the sharing of personal photos or videos online, or use privacy filters, to prevent these images from being used to create fake accounts.
For assistance, information, or inquiries, contact the Cyber Cell in Port Blair through the Cyber Helpline at 9531856083 or visit https://cybercrime.gov.in.
As cyber fraud tactics evolve, public awareness and vigilance are crucial in safeguarding personal and financial information. Andaman and Nicobar Police urge residents to stay informed and cautious to avoid falling prey to these sophisticated scams.