A 72-year-old woman from Kudappanakunnu in Kerala has become the latest victim of a growing web of online fraud. The victim reportedly received a call from someone posing as a Reserve Bank of India (RBI) official who told her that her credit card has been blocked due to security concerns. After the call, when the elderly woman tried to unblock her card, the fraudsters managed to steal Rs 72 lakh from her bank account.

According to a TOI report, the scam began on August 23 when the victim received a call from a man claiming to be an RBI official. The caller told her that her credit card had been blocked and needed immediate attention. On the pretext of providing more details about the matter, the victim then received a call from another man who claimed to be a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) officer. This second caller alleged that a money laundering case had been filed against her, further increasing the fear and anxiety of the elderly woman.

Like other online fraud cases where victims received calls from fake CBI officials and were subsequently subjected to “digital arrest”, the elderly woman was also asked to stay online and was put under ‘virtual arrest’. During this period, the scammers continued to communicate with the victim through various means, including video calls, and convinced her about the gravity of her situation. They also presented her with fake documents, including a false FIR and official papers from the Supreme Court of India and the RBI, to give an appearance of legitimacy to their claims.

During the fake interrogation, the woman was allegedly forced to share her sensitive bank credentials, pretending that it was required for the ongoing investigation. Trusting the callers, she provided the information, believing that it would help solve the case. However, as soon as the scammers got her details, they transferred Rs 72 lakh from her accounts to their own accounts. They assured her that the funds would be refunded, but soon after, the fraudsters cut off all communications, leaving her with a drain on her savings.

How to stay safe?

This is certainly not the first case of online fraud in which an elderly woman has been targeted, and in recent years, scammers have increasingly targeted the elderly as they are often less tech-savvy. Scammers take advantage of this digital illiteracy, as well as the vulnerabilities associated with old age, to coerce their victims into handing over money or financial details.

To stay safe from such scams, it is important to make the elderly aware of the risks. Encourage them to always be cautious and never trust any caller asking for sensitive information online. Always verify the identity of the caller. Genuine organisations like banks, RBI or CBI will never ask for sensitive information over the phone. If you receive such calls, disconnect the call and contact the organisation directly through its official numbers. Never share your personal or financial information, including OTPs, card details or bank credentials, with anyone over the phone or online, no matter who they are.

In particular, scammers often use fear tactics such as threats of legal action or arrest to mislead victims. Stay calm and seek advice from reliable sources before taking any action. If you suspect any fraudulent activity, report it immediately to the police and your bank. Quick action can sometimes prevent financial losses.

Remember that awareness is the first line of defence. Be aware of common frauds and educate your family members, especially the elderly, who are often targeted due to their trusting nature.