Mumbai: As most shops and malls across the state were shut due to coronavirus-induced lockdown, citizens were left with the only option of online shopping.
Through clicks, people started buying household necessities ranging from groceries to clothing.
Since most transactions are done via credit/debit cards and net banking, the state's cyber department has been receiving numerous complaints of fraud.
What information and data are stolen?
With digital transactions taking place on a large scale, cyber hackers are currently experimenting with new ways to deceive the public online. Cybercriminals have created a new program code for online transactions. This program code is 'camouflaged' in various online shopping websites.
When a customer fills in their credit or debit details, internet bank account ID and password, debit/credit card PIN, CVV number, mobile number, etc. for making payment for their purchase, this program code copies all the information.
Cyber hackers then record the stolen information and sell it to cyber thieves, which in turn result in other online frauds.
How can one stay safe?
- Customers should be cautious when making online financial transactions.
- It is always better to opt for Cash On Delivery instead of online payment.
- As soon as you buy online, check the amount in your respective bank account, in which only the amount spent should be deducted.
- Make sure the website on which you are conducting online financial transactions is secure.
As many as, 938 cybercrimes were reported in Mumbai between January 1 and May, including four cyber attacks on computer systems, 15 Nigerian online frauds, 212 credit card cases, and 614 other such cases.
ALSO READ: JAAGTE RAHO: You could fall prey to Identity cloning
