1. Job Scam

Students at Universities face job scam through fake websites promising jobs. When the students click on these sites, they are asked to pay certain amounts. They collect huge amounts and finally the company vanishes. Attention of the students may be brought through awareness campaign.

To avoid job scam websites: thoroughly research companies before applying, verify job postings through official channels, and never provide sensitive information or pay fees upfront.

2. Online Gaming Scam

Online gaming scams mostly common with school students from 9th-12th class, and also with University students. These days quishing are on the rise. QR codes are shown to pay certain amounts. The fraudsters paste these QR codes on the genuine QR codes for payment. Once the image of this QR code is taken, one gives access to the data in the mobile.

Quishing, also known as QR code phishing, is a type of phishing attack that tricks a user into scanning a malicious QR code with a mobile device. In a typical attack, the QR code opens a fraudulent website in the user's browser, which then might download malware or harvest sensitive information, such as login credentials or credit card numbers.

To avoid QR code scams: always verify the source of the QR code, inspect it for tampering, and be cautious of unsolicited codes. Use a trusted QR code scanner with security features, and double-check URLs before proceeding. Don't enter personal information on websites accessed through QR codes unless you are absolutely sure of the site's legitimacy.

3. Digital Arrest

Digital arrest is faced mostly by doctors, engineers, mostly professionals. In certain instance, even though the bank advised against closure of fixed deposit, the person insisted on its closure and transferring into his savings account for payment. In such cases the fraudster is having secret information for blackmailing the victim.

To avoid a digital arrest scam: be extremely cautious of unsolicited calls or messages claiming to be law enforcement or government officials. Verify the caller's identity through official channels, avoid sharing personal information like Aadhaar or bank details, and never make payments based on phone calls or online requests.

4. Deepfake

Deepfake is another area of concern. Even the voice of former RBI Governor was used to prepare sound clips advising to invest in particular security so that one will get huge return. RBI came out with counter information. But, by that time huge amounts were invested. Here are some strategies to protect yourself, and some tips about what to do if you suspect you're the victim of a deepfake.

• Share with care: Be extremely cautious about what personal information you share online. Limit the amount of data available about yourself, especially high-quality photos and videos, that could be used to create a deepfake. Adjust privacy settings on social media platforms and trust only known people.
• Watermark photos: When sharing images or videos online, consider using a digital watermark on them.
• Report deepfakes: If you encounter a deepfake of yourself or someone you know, report it immediately to the platform and law enforcement if malicious.
• Limit your online footprint: Think twice before posting or sharing content online.
• Tighten social media privacy settings: Limit who can view and share your posts to reduce misuse of your images.

One should follow basic cyber hygiene techniques: identifying cyber frauds, securing devices, understanding data privacy and protection, and knowing how to report incidents. Awareness is created through print and electronic media, yet many ignore advisories. 1930 is the cybercrime helpline. Calling and registering any cybercrime can prevent further loss.

Do not search helpline numbers on Google as fraudsters often post fake numbers. Always keep the official bank helpline numbers handy. If resolution is not received within a month, escalate to the banking ombudsman.