HIGHLIGHTS

Rajesh Kumar received a distressing call from someone identifying himself as Ajay Tripathi from Punjab National Bank.

The caller inquired if Rajesh was interested in obtaining a credit card.

After expressing interest, Rajesh was instructed to shift the discussion to WhatsApp.

In an era where technology shapes our daily lives, online scams are increasingly elaborate, with victims falling prey to cunning tactics. A startling case from Chandigarh underscores this issue, revealing how an unsuspecting individual lost nearly Rs 9 lakh due to credit card fraud. In this article, we will delve deeper into how the scam unfolded and provide essential tips to help you recognize and avoid such fraudulent schemes.

The troubling situation began when Rajesh Kumar received a phone call from an individual who claimed to be Ajay Tripathi, supposedly affiliated with Punjab National Bank. The caller’s pitch revolved around the offer of a credit card, which immediately piqued Rajesh’s interest. Following his show of enthusiasm, the caller redirected him to continue their conversation via WhatsApp. During a subsequent video call, the scammer requested that Rajesh verify his identity. Trusting the individual on the other end of the line, Rajesh unwisely divulged sensitive information, including details pertaining to his American Express and Axis Bank credit cards.

Shortly after, the fraudster sent a link, purporting to facilitate the completion of the credit card application process. However, upon clicking the link, Rajesh was shocked to witness a flurry of suspicious transactions on both his credit cards. Reacting swiftly, he contacted the customer service departments of both banks to request a block on his cards. Unfortunately, by the time he made this call, the scammer had already executed six unauthorized transactions totaling Rs 8.69 lakh on his American Express card. Additionally, another Rs 60,000 was charged to his Axis Bank card.

For more insights, you can also read: Beware! This new call merging scam can wipe out your entire life savings: How to be safe.