Rohtak: Festivals are a time of celebration, giving gifts to loved ones and shopping. During this period, facilities like attractive discounts, special offers for limited time and cashback are available on both online and offline channels, which motivate people to make quick purchases. In this rush of festivals, many times people decide without thinking to take advantage of such offers which look very good. Cyber thugs understand this behavior of people very well and take advantage of it through cunningness (social engineering) and trap them. The methods of fraud are also changing with technology. In such a situation, by having a little awareness and taking some necessary precautions, people can make digital payments during festivals safely and without any hassle.
Shop only from authorized apps and websites
During festivals and sales, cyber thugs create fake websites and links that look like real websites, so that people's personal information and payment information can be stolen. Therefore, always type the website address yourself or use authorized apps only. Do not click on links from unknown sources or download any files. These also include links containing festive offers or greetings. Such links may take you to fake websites or contain harmful software, putting your device and the information contained on it at risk.
Always make payment on the same platform from where you are purchasing
In some fraud cases, people are asked to go outside the shopping app or website and make payment through another UPI ID or link. Doing so may skip the security check process. Therefore, always make payment on the payment page of the app or website and check the seller's information carefully before making the payment.
Beware of the lure of free vouchers and cashback
Messages offering rewards, cashback or festive gifts may ask you to provide OTP, bank account details or make a small payment. There is never any need to provide any confidential information or make any advance deposit to avail the genuine offer. Therefore, do not share your personal information or pay any fee based on messages received from unknown numbers or sources. For information about any such offer, check directly by visiting the concerned app or website.