By Sushant Agarwal
Published on | Jul 10, 2025
Scammers now blend digital theft with real-world tactics. They sound legit, know your name, and may steal your money in minutes.
Your personal info may already be leaked from past data breaches. Names, numbers, even card details are traded online.
You get a call from “your bank.” They sound authentic, ask you to verify with a one-time passcode—and then drain your account.
These hybrid scams mix hacked data, social engineering, and weak verification systems. They're harder to detect—and far more damaging.
Victims lose thousands. But banks often refuse reimbursement, citing terms violations for “voluntarily” sharing OTPs—even under deception.
Even when fraud leaves a physical trail, law enforcement rarely investigates. CCTV, in-store use, cloned cards—often ignored.
Despite growing fraud, SMS-based OTPs remain common. Scammers easily exploit them. It’s time for better identity checks.
Never share OTPs on a call—even if it seems legit. Hang up, call your bank directly. Share personal data online with extreme caution.
Banks must update verification processes. Data brokers need regulation. Law enforcement must pursue cyber-enabled fraud seriously.
These scams don’t just steal money—they erode public trust in banks, security, and the systems meant to protect us.