Cyber Crime
FedEx Courier Fraud Strikes Bengaluru: Residents Warned of Impersonation Scam Tactics
Bengaluru residents are falling victim to a sophisticated scam involving impersonation of FedEx employees and law enforcement officials, with the latest victim losing a staggering Rs 1.98 crore.
ALSO READ: FutureCrime Summit 2024: Most Innovative Confluence of Cyber Crime Fighters
Modus Operandi:
- Fake Packages: Victims receive calls from individuals posing as FedEx couriers, claiming to have intercepted a package addressed to them containing illegal substances.
- Cybercrime Transfer: The call is transferred to a “police officer” who accuses the victim of involvement in money laundering linked to the package.
- Financial Manipulation: The victim is pressured into transferring large sums of money to “verify” their innocence, often through sustained Skype calls and confinement in hotel rooms.
Escalating Crisis:
- 163 cases: Bengaluru police reported over 160 FedEx fraud cases this year, resulting in a total loss exceeding Rs 5 crore.
- Nationwide Trend: According to NCRB, Bengaluru accounted for 73.4% of cybercrime cases across 19 major cities in 2022.
- New Scam: The “online job” scam lures victims with fake job opportunities, demanding processing fees after promising substantial earnings.
ALSO READ: Nominate India’s 100 Most Influential Cyber Warriors
Protect Yourself:
- Verify Packages: Always use the official FedEx website to track packages. Don’t click on links from unknown sources.
- Stay Discreet: Never share sensitive information like bank details over the phone, especially with strangers.
- End Suspicious Calls: Don’t engage with callers who make threats or pressure you for money.
- Report Immediately: If you suspect a scam, contact emergency services or visit the nearest cybercrime police station to file a complaint.
ALSO READ: Cyber Crime Helpline: Reporting Cyber Crime In India? Keep This Information Ready Before Calling 1930!
Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to avoid falling victim to these evolving scams.
Additional Information:
- The scam primarily targets individuals with no prior involvement in sending or receiving international packages.
- Scammers often exploit fear and anxiety to coerce victims into making rash decisions.
- Awareness and prevention are crucial to combat this growing threat.