Hyderabad police warn against rising OTP fraud cases

Hyderabad Police have warned of a rise in OTP-related cyber frauds, where criminals trick people into sharing passwords or approving fake UPI requests. Citizens have been urged to stay alert and report suspicious activity immediately.

Hyderabad: The Hyderabad Police have issued a public alert cautioning citizens against a surge in fraud involving One-Time Passwords (OTPs), which cybercriminals are using to gain illegal access to bank accounts, digital wallets, credit cards and personal data.

According to the Cybercrime officials, fraudsters are employing multiple tactics such as posing as bank officials seeking KYC updates, offering fake refunds or cash backs, impersonating customer care executives, and luring victims with promises of jobs or instant loans.

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“In several cases, criminals send fake UPI collect requests while claiming money will be credited, leading to unauthorised debits once victims approve the request. SIM swap frauds and fake e-commerce delivery or return calls are also being reported,” officials said.

Police have reiterated that no bank, government agency, e-commerce platform, or delivery service ever asks for OTPs. Citizens have been advised to avoid responding to unknown calls or messages, not to approve suspicious UPI requests, and to verify customer care numbers only through official websites or apps. Sharing screenshots containing OTPs has also been flagged as risky.

Officials said to enhance safety, users were urged to activate SIM locks, device screen locks and transaction alerts. Any suspected cyber fraud should be immediately reported to the National Cybercrime Helpline at 1930 or through cybercrime.gov.in.