Identity theftPartially recovered
Fake customer care: a number from search results and a shared screen
This is a composite illustration built from the near-identical complaints received every day, not the record of one real case; the amount only indicates the typical order of magnitude, while the method, the warning signs and the sections cited are real. The root of the problem here is that the number came from search results or an advertisement, not from the company's own website. And the biggest rule of all: never install a remote-access app because someone on a call asks you to, since the moment your screen is shared your OTP and banking details are plainly visible to them.
- Amount lost
- ₹95,000
Names and identifying details have been changed.
What happened
Looking for help with a refund, a food delivery or a wallet issue, the person searches the internet for a 'customer care number' and calls the one at the top, which the fraudsters have themselves pushed up. The voice at the other end listens patiently and, on the pretext of filling a form, has an app such as AnyDesk, TeamViewer or QuickSupport installed. Once the app code is handed over, the entire screen is visible to him and he has the person make a small 'test transaction'. During this the banking app details and every incoming OTP are visible to him, and within minutes several large transactions go through. The person realises only when the call ends and the messages appear together.
The warning signs
- A support number found in search results, an advertisement or a social post
- Being asked to share your screen or install a remote-access app
- Being told to send a small amount first in order to get a refund
- A card number, UPI PIN or OTP being asked for on the call
- Pressure to open your banking app while still on the call
What the victim did
Uninstall the remote-access app at once, call the bank to block the card and net banking, then call 1930, file a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in and give the bank a written complaint as well.
Outcome
If the bank and 1930 are informed the same day, part of the money that is still held up can come back, but full recovery is uncommon.
What you can do
- Take support numbers only from the company's official website or the help section of its own app
- Never install a remote-access app such as AnyDesk or TeamViewer on someone's instruction
- Remember a refund never requires you to pay — it is credited on its own
- Set a daily transaction limit on the account and keep SMS alerts on