Real banks, couriers and police do not rush you over a chat. Use this as a floor, not as legal or financial advice.
Never do these
- Do not pay a fee to release a parcel, prize, job or refund.
- Do not share an OTP, UPI PIN, CVV or password with anyone who messages you.
- Do not install AnyDesk, TeamViewer, QuickSupport, RustDesk or a random APK from a text.
- Do not stay on a video call because someone says you are under “digital arrest”. There is no such thing in Indian law.
- Do not move money to a “safe”, “escrow” or “RBI” account from a chat.
- Open the company website yourself. Do not tap the link in the message.
- Call back on a number from the official site or the back of your card, never the number in the text.
If you already paid or shared a code
In India, report financial cyber fraud at cybercrime.gov.in or by calling 1930. In the US, report at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Tell the bank immediately.
When money is involved, verify with the company directly, on a number you look up yourself.