Editorial | Caution Remains the Key!

Online scams are one of the worst things one would ever want to be a victim of on the internet (Cyber frauds). Since the introduction of the well-known social media platforms, there has been an increase in numerous types of cybercrimes, making people more susceptible than before. The denizens of Kashmir have also fallen victim to such scams, and many individuals have been seduced by ponzi schemes and lotteries just to lose their money with just a single click. We hear about cases of online scams occurring frequently and individuals falling prey to them. Everyone who uses a mobile phone should be aware of these scams and the cunning methods that are being used to entice victims. The fraudsters typically call individuals pretending to be bank personnel. The fraudsters usually make calls masquerading as bank employees, people from telecom services, or other sectors, to make people reveal their bank details and wipe away their hard earned money in a flash. Another type of spoofing, common these days are the fraud calls claiming to be from KBC. Any such calls or texts promising lotteries, lucky draws and bumper prizes are fake and an attempt to fleece money. Every Mobile phone user must know that any call or text asking for bank details, passwords, OTP’s, or promising cash rewards and lotteries are from cyber fraudsters and no authentic bank or company ask for such details. However, the cyber frauds take place in different forms and till the time, we come to understand the new flimflam, a multitude of people would be already caught in their trap. Unknown video calls via WhatsApp, Facebook, and other social media portals are more rampant these days, and receiving them can land you into trouble. Nude girls would flash once you receive the unknown calls who record the video and at the drop of the call demand huge money from you and blackmail you on the pretext of making the recorded video viral. Many other incidents of similar nature have been reported in the recent past, which are only catching pace with every passing day. Meanwhile the Cyber cell is continuously creating awareness among common masses to remain cautious and act prudently given the rising cases of cyber frauds. A single mistake can turn the tables for any of us, so caution remains the key to save yourself and your loved ones’ from such things.