Port Blair, Nov 05: A new trend in financial cyber fraud has been observed where WhatsApp messages are being sent from random WhatsApp accounts using images of senior government officials as profile Display Picture to create gift cards on Amazon, Flipkart, or other E-commerce platforms. Gift cards or gift vouchers are prepaid stored-value money cards, usually issued by a retailer, to be used as an alternative to cash for purchases within a particular store or related businesses.
In this regard, Andaman and Nicobar Police issue the following advisory to safeguard yourself:
1. If a WhatsApp message from an unknown mobile number is received, check with the previously known number (or with common acquaintances) if the new mobile number is authentic.
2. Call & confirm with the concerned senior official, if any such money related request is made.
3. Fraudsters typically show urgency in their requests. Scrutinize, if a request seems too urgent.
4. Avoid replying to unknown messages on messaging apps such WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, etc.
5. Avoid sharing photos or videos online (privacy filters may be used if shared), as these may be used for creating fake accounts on WhatsApp, Telegram, or other messaging platforms.
For assistance, information or enquiries, please contact: Cyber Cell, Port Blair, over Cyber Helpline No. 9531856083 or visit cybercrime.gov.in.
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