Hyderabad police issue dos and don’ts for avoiding online fraud ahead of Christmas, New Year
Officials said cybercriminals are actively exploiting festive offers, online shopping, travel bookings and digital payments to cheat unsuspecting people.
By Newsmeter Network
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Hyderabad: With Christmas and New Year celebrations approaching, the Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police have issued a public advisory cautioning citizens against a surge in online frauds during the festive season.
From festive offers to digital payments
Officials said cybercriminals are actively exploiting festive offers, online shopping, travel bookings and digital payments to cheat unsuspecting people.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Cyber Crimes) V Aravind Babu urged the public to remain alert and follow basic cyber safety practices to avoid financial losses.
Surge in festive season cyber scams
According to the Cyber Crime Police, scammers typically target people through a variety of deceptive methods during festivals, when online activity peaks. Common scams reported during this period include:
- Circulation of unknown links and fake APK files through WhatsApp, SMS and email.
- Lottery, gift, cashback and lucky draw frauds.
- Fake New Year party and event passes.
- Fraudulent travel, hotel and resort bookings.
- Fake cab and vehicle rental services.
- Bogus charity and donation appeals.
- Fake job and part-time work offers.
- Fraudulent refund, bonus and discount messages.
Advisory to the public
Police have advised citizens to exercise caution while making online transactions or responding to festive offers. Key safety measures include:
- Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown apps and APK files.
- Never share OTPs, PINs, CVV numbers or banking details with anyone.
- Verify travel bookings, event passes and offers only through official websites or apps.
- Stay away from unknown QR codes and unsolicited UPI payment requests.
- Enable two-factor authentication and keep mobile and banking apps updated.
What to do if you are cheated
Victims of cyber fraud have been advised to report incidents immediately by calling the national cybercrime helpline 1930 or by filing a complaint on the official portal www.cybercrime.gov.in.
Citizens are also urged to preserve screenshots, transaction details and contact information related to the fraud for investigation.
The Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police have appealed to the public to stay informed and follow official advisories to ensure a safe and secure festive season.
