With diwali around the corner, the festive mood means one thing — online shopping frenzy! But scammers are also gearing up to exploit the rush, especially on popular platforms like whatsapp and Instagram. Here’s how to spot and avoid the latest scams to keep your accounts and money safe this season.
1. Why Are Scams Increasing During Diwali?
The festival season means big sales, attractive discounts, and heavy online activity. Fraudsters use this opportunity to trick users with fake offers, phishing links, and account hacking attempts. Their goal? To steal your personal data, banking details, or even take control of your social media accounts.
2. Common whatsapp Scams to watch Out For
· Fake discount coupons: Messages claiming “Exclusive diwali deals” with suspicious links that ask for personal info or payment details.
· OTP phishing: Scammers send fake OTP (One-Time Password) requests pretending to be from banks or apps, trying to capture your verification codes.
· Account cloning: Fraudsters impersonate your contacts to ask for money or sensitive information.
3. Beware of instagram Frauds This Season
· Fake giveaways and contests: Posts promising free gifts if you follow a link or share your account details. These often lead to phishing sites.
· Impersonation accounts: Scammers create fake profiles mimicking brands or influencers to lure you into scams.
· DM scams: Fraudulent direct messages offering exclusive deals or asking for money transfers.
4. How to Protect Yourself from These Scams
· Never click on suspicious links from unknown senders.
· Verify official accounts before engaging with offers or giveaways.
· Do not share OTPs or passwords with anyone. Banks or apps never ask for these via message.
· Enable two-factor authentication on your whatsapp and instagram accounts for extra security.
· Report suspicious messages and block scammers immediately.
5. What to Do If You Fall Victim?
· Contact your bank or payment app immediately to freeze transactions.
· Report the hack or scam to WhatsApp/Instagram support.
· Inform friends and family to avoid further spread from your compromised account.
6. Stay Vigilant This Festive Season!
Enjoy your diwali shopping and celebrations but stay alert online. Scammers are clever, but with caution and awareness, you can keep your accounts and money safe.
Spread the word! Share these tips with your loved ones to protect everyone this festive season.
Stay safe and have a joyous, scam-free Diwali!
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk..jpg)
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