In today’s digital age, Online criminals always find new ways to trick people. In such a situation, it is necessary that you also know about them so that no one can cheat you. A new method of cheating is the “call-merging scam” which has come into discussion recently. So, let’s know…
What is a call-merging scam?
A call merging scam is a type of telephonic fraud in which scammers steal confidential information or commit fraud by unauthorizedly connecting to a person’s phone call. This scam is mainly used to steal banking fraud, business fraud, social media login and personal information. This scam is done through voice call OTP.
Fraudsters call you and make an excuse like you’ve won something or a parcel has arrived or a friend has asked you to call. Then during this time, a call is sent to your phone with OTP and you are asked to merge that call. As soon as you merge the call, the OTP reaches the fraudster. By doing so, he can not only hack an account by logging in but can also empty the bank balance.
How does cheating happen?
The scammer makes a phone call, which can be in the name of a bank, company, government agency, parcel company, or a friendly person. During the conversation, the person is asked to merge another voice OTP call (add to the conference).
- As soon as the call is merged, the scammer hears OTP in this conference call.
- In this way, the person shares OTP or any other information related to his bank, after which the scammer withdraws money through fake transactions or logs in to an account.
What are the ways to protect yourself?
If an unknown person asks you to merge calls, be cautious and refuse to merge. If you think the call may be recorded, disconnect the call immediately. Before taking the second call, disconnect the call of the person you are talking to and only then pick up the next call.
- Contact cyber-crime helpline or local police.
- Be sure to report suspicious calls.
- Merge calls only with trusted people.
Before picking up an unknown person’s call, find out the authenticity of the call. If you want, disconnect the call and then make the call.
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About the Author
Aryan Garg – A Science enthusiast turned certified cybersecurity expert with WSCubeTech. His passion lies at the intersection of technology and security, where he decodes the mysteries of the digital world to empower individuals and businesses alike.