- Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police alert citizens on rising fraud
- Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police urge caution over OTP misuse
Hyderabad: The Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police have issued a strong warning to citizens against sharing One Time Passwords under any circumstances. The advisory comes amid a rise in cyber fraud cases reported across the city. Police said sharing OTPs has led to unauthorised access to bank accounts, digital wallets, and online platforms.
According to officials, fraudsters are using multiple methods to deceive people. These include phone calls, text messages, WhatsApp chats, fake customer care numbers, and phishing websites. Meanwhile, scammers trick victims into revealing OTPs by creating panic or urgency. Police said once an OTP is shared, criminals gain quick access to sensitive financial and personal accounts.
Cybercrime officials explained the common tactics used by fraudsters. “Scammers often pose as bank officials, customer care executives, delivery agents, or job and loan facilitators to create urgency and extract OTPs,” Cybercrime officials said. They added that in many cases, victims are also being cheated through fake UPI collect requests, online refund offers, and SIM swap frauds. Therefore, officials stressed that people must stay alert and verify every request carefully.
Meanwhile, the Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police advised citizens to ignore unknown calls or messages asking for OTPs. They also asked people to avoid approving unfamiliar UPI collect requests. Police further warned against sharing screenshots that contain OTPs, calling it a serious security risk. Citizens have been told to verify customer care numbers only through official websites or mobile applications to avoid falling prey to fake contacts.
Later, officials highlighted the need for quick reporting in cyber fraud cases. They urged victims, or those who notice suspicious online activity, to report it immediately. Complaints can be made to the National Cyber Crime Helpline by dialing 1930. Reports can also be filed through the official cybercrime.gov.in portal. Early reporting, police said, helps limit losses and improves the chances of tracing fraudsters.
The warning from the Hyderabad Cyber Crime Police reflects growing concern over digital fraud. As online payments and services increase, officials said caution remains the best defense. They reiterated that no bank, company, or government agency will ever ask for OTPs. Citizens have been urged to stay informed, remain cautious, and protect their digital identity at all times.
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