What is Cyber Crime and How We Can Safe from Online Scam?

Thu Mar 27, 2025

In today’s digital world, almost everything happens online—banking, shopping, business, investment, communication, and even work. With this growth, cybercriminals are also becoming active by targeting innocent people through fraud calls, fake links, job scams, money-making apps, and phishing attacks. Understanding what cybercrime is and how to stay safe is the first step toward protecting yourself.


What is Cyber Crime? Cybercrime refers to any illegal activity performed using computers, mobile devices, the internet, or digital networks. Some common forms include:
  • Online financial fraud
  • UPI/Wallet scams
  • Job scams
  • Investment and trading scams
  • Gaming payment frauds
  • Identity theft
  • Data breach or data misuse
  • Hacking and phishing
  • Social media account hacking
  • Cyberbullying and online threats
Cybercriminals use modern technology to trick people through fake websites, cloned apps, misleading messages, and digital manipulation.
Common Types of Online Scams
  • Fake job offers on WhatsApp, Telegram, or websites
  • Fraud investment schemes like USDT trading, stock trading, online tasks
  • Gaming transactions leading to bank disputes
  • Fake customer care numbers listed on Google
  • Loan app harassment and misuse of personal data
  • Remote access scams through AnyDesk or TeamViewer
  • OTP, KYC update, SIM swap fraud

How to Stay Safe from Cyber Crime? Follow these practical cybersecurity habits:
  • Do not share OTP, PIN, CVV, or passwords
  • Do not download remote access apps when unknown persons ask
  • Use strong passwords with two-factor authentication
  • Avoid clicking suspicious links
  • Verify job or investment companies before trusting
  • Never share bank screenshots, statements, or Aadhaar with strangers
  • Do not invest money in online tasks, crypto groups, or profit schemes
  • Always keep your phone and banking apps updated
  • Check URLs before entering personal details
  • Do not trust unknown Telegram/WhatsApp groups

What to Do If You Become a Victim of Cyber Crime? If you fall into any online scam, take immediate steps:
  • Call the cybercrime helpline 1930
  • File a complaint on www.cybercrime.gov.in
  • Inform your bank to put a freeze on suspicious transactions
  • Collect evidence like chats, screenshots, audio, payment IDs
  • Do not delete anything
  • If legal action begins, contact a cyber advocate for guidance
  • Follow up with your local cyber police station
Early reporting increases the chance of recovering money.


 
How to Recover Money Lost in Online Scam? Money recovery depends on the speed of reporting and nature of fraud.
  • Report within the golden hour
  • Provide bank reference numbers, UTR, and proof
  • Cooperate with cyber police for investigation
  • File a written application with your bank
  • Monitor freeze or lien updates
  • Seek legal help if required

Why Bank Puts Hold, Freeze or Lien on Your Account After Fraud? Banks freeze accounts when:
  • Suspicious or disputed money enters your account
  • Fraudster uses your account in the scam chain
  • Gaming platforms or investment apps report a cyber complaint
  • Cyber cell orders a freeze under Section 91 CrPC
  • Money is linked to another FIR or complaint
This is a standard procedure to stop further fraud and protect money.
How to Remove Lien/Hold/Freeze from Bank Account? Write an application to the cyber cell and your bank stating:
  • Your full details
  • Account number
  • Reason for hold
  • Clarification that you are an innocent customer
  • Attach complaint copy and supporting proofs
After verification, the cyber cell issues a clearance/NOC to the bank.
Digital Arrest Awareness Digital arrest means scammers impersonate police, CBI, or government officers through video calls and threaten victims. They demand money to “resolve” fake cases. Remember:
  • Police never arrest anyone on video call
  • Police never demand money online
  • Do not panic
  • Immediately contact your nearest cyber police

Trending Cyber Crimes in India
  • USDT trading scams
  • Gaming task fraud
  • Flight booking scams
  • Instagram business scam
  • Fake parcel/customs/drug packet scam
  • Impersonation scam
  • Work from home task fraud
  • Identity and data theft
  • Crypto exchange P2P chain fraud

Final Safety Tips
  • Stay updated about digital fraud patterns
  • Educate family members, especially elders and students
  • Avoid easy-money schemes
  • Use verified apps and websites
  • Report every scam immediately
  • Maintain cyber hygiene, just like personal hygiene

Disclaimer This article is for awareness and educational use only. It does not promote or advertise any service. For cyber fraud complaints, contact helpline 1930 or visit the National Cyber Crime Portal (www.cybercrime.gov.in).