Cyber criminals are now able to steal money without having the need for OTP or even cards. A new scam is now in play using biometrics on people. A woman from Jharkhand lost ₹10,000 thanks to this fraudulent theft. It is important to remain alert so you do not lose your money. Let’s learn how this scam works and ways to stay safe.
In Garwa district in Jharkhand, a woman fell victim to fraud. Her [criminal] thieves targeted her to rob her bank account. They stole ₹10,000 by using her Aadhaar. The woman found out later. Her theft stemmed from a fake PM Kisan Yojana offer. The thieves scanned the woman’s eyes to access the money in the account. This ultimately left the woman shocked.
Most bank accounts are linked to Aadhaar. Biometrics scans like fingerprints or an iris scan are built in to allow withdrawals. The bank put limits on the biometric access for security and safety. Criminals use the system. They do a lot of research on Aadhaar numbers to find an account. They will scan biometrics under the table, which results in no OTP / card needed to access your money. The money is gone quickly!
The criminals had tricked the victim into submitting interest in their scheme to access the benefits of the PM Kisan Yojana. They looked up the victim’s Aadhaar information and was able use the victims iris to exhaust her cash from her bank account. Many victims do not realize they have been defrauded until long after the scam is carried out. This method silently accesses a person’s account, making it especially frightening.
Stay Safe Against Fraud
Be careful about fraud! You can avoid fraud by not providing personal documents. Check these strangers and scammers left and right! You have got to protect your Aadhaar card. If you have to use the Aadhaar card use the virtual Aadhaar numbers.
Visit UIDAI’s web page to generate one. Subsequently lock your Aadhaar biometrics and unlock the biometrics only when required. Be sure to lock again immediately after you no longer need it.
Criminals lure victims using fake prizes. They promise of gifts or benefits of some Government scheme. These are simply social engineering traps set by criminals. Do no fall for the greed. Offers should always be verified by official sources. Do not let the fraudsters win!
First lock your Aadhaar biometrics on UIDAI’s website. You can also use the mAadhaar app to lock and unlock. Any transactions will need to be completed with a virtual id. It is also advisable to regularly review bank transaction and statements and report any suspicious activity as soon as possible. These steps will make your account secure.
The tactics used by cybercriminals are always changing. Cybercriminals adapt their techniques as they see fit, and relish that people trust technology. As biometric fraud is almost impossible to detect, the actions of vigilance I have recommended will continue to prevent the loss of your money. Please take time to educate your family members on scams they may encounter. Each of them is a possible fraudster opportunity.
Never send your Aadhaar details through a casual conversation. Use the virtual id for official work. Review your bank accounts weekly. Don’t respond to any unverified scheme offers. Notify your bank of fraud immediately. Have an understanding of what current scams are happening.
There is a new biometric scam that is serious! Cybercriminals tap into the opportunity of leaving no traceable footprint, OTP or cards. Protect your Aadhaar and always be vigilante. Be sure to lock your biometrics, and verify any offers or deals. We work hard for our money and need to protect it!