10 Common Online Fraud Tricks Used to Steal Your Hard-Earned Money

Online scams in India have grown faster than most people realise. Every week, you hear of someone losing money to a fake link, a suspicious message, or a cleverly disguised caller pretending to be an official. With digital payments becoming common even for small purchases, cybercriminals have found new ways to target people who may not expect trouble.

This is why it is essential to stay alert and choose safe platforms when managing your finances online. Whether it is online banking, shopping, or applying for an instant loan online, always check the source and avoid sharing personal details on unknown sites.

If you prefer borrowing digitally, trusted platforms like Kissht, an RBI-approved loan app and one of the best trusted instant loan apps, help reduce your risk by keeping the process secure and transparent. Always remember that safety begins with awareness, and knowing the most common online scams can save you from a lot of trouble.

Below are the 10 most common online fraud tricks circulating in India today, explained in a simple and relatable way.

1. Work-From-Home Job Scams

Many people get attracted to easy money through part-time or WFH job messages. Scammers offer high payouts for simple tasks and ask for small “registration fees”. Once the money is sent, they vanish.
 Victims often share personal details, thinking they are applying for a real job, which puts them at even higher risk.

Stay safe: Question high income for little work. Avoid vague job descriptions.

2. Fake WhatsApp Invitations

People often receive wedding invites or festival cards on WhatsApp from unknown numbers. When they click on the attached PDF or link, it installs malware. Criminals then gain access to banking apps and OTPs, resulting in significant losses.

Stay safe: Always verify invitations with the person directly. Avoid opening links from unknown numbers.

3. Illegal Parcel Scams

Someone calls, saying your Aadhaar or PAN has been used for an illegal parcel. They pretend to be from a courier company or even law enforcement and pressure you to share personal financial details. Fear and urgency make many people fall for it.

Stay safe: Do not answer parcel-related calls if you are not expecting anything. Never share bank details on calls.

4. KYC Update Scams

Scammers pose as bank officials and tell you that your KYC needs to be updated urgently. They send fake links or ask you to install harmful apps. Once installed, these apps share your sensitive information with them.

Stay safe: Always update KYC only through the official bank app or website. Do not download apps sent by unknown callers.

5. “Digital Arrest” Scams

This scam has shaken many people, including public figures. Fraudsters pretend to be from the police or cyber cell. They claim you are under investigation and must stay on a video or phone call. They emotionally pressure victims into transferring money for a “settlement”.

Stay safe: There is no concept of digital arrest in India. Hang up immediately and contact the cybercrime helpline.

6. Investment and Trading Scams

Social media is full of flashy posts offering unbelievable returns on shares, crypto, or forex schemes. Fraudsters send fake dashboards to show profits and encourage you to invest more. People end up losing lakhs believing it is a genuine opportunity.

Stay safe: Research investment apps and schemes thoroughly. Extremely high returns with no risk are a red flag.

7. Cashback and Reward Scams

Scammers send attractive cashback messages. These often contain links that lead to phishing pages or ask for your UPI PIN. A single wrong step can drain your account.

Stay safe: Brands never ask for your UPI PIN. Ignore suspicious cashback offers.

8. Fraud Websites and Fake Shopping Platforms

Many people fall prey to online shopping scams where prices look too good to be true. The website takes your money but never delivers the product. These fraudulent websites disappear within days.

Stay safe: Buy only from known platforms. Check customer reviews and return policies before paying.

9. Online Banking Frauds

Phishing pages and fake login screens are commonly used to steal banking credentials. Victims receive messages purporting to be from their bank that issue urgent warnings of account blockage. One wrong click and criminals gain full access.

Stay safe: Never log in through SMS links. Type the bank website manually or use the official app.

10. Online Money Scams Through Social Media

This includes lottery scams, online romance frauds, crypto giveaways, or money-multiplying offers. Fraudsters emotionally influence people and convince them to transfer money without thinking twice.

Stay safe: Never transfer money to strangers, no matter how convincing their story feels.

What To Do If You Face Online Fraud

If you ever come across online fraud, act immediately. Report the issue on the National Cybercrime Portal or call the cybercrime helpline 1930. The quicker you act, the higher the chance of recovering the money.

When it comes to financial needs like personal loans, always choose a verified and transparent platform. Kissht, an RBI-approved and trusted instant loan app, ensures secure processing and protects you from common online money fraud risks.

FAQs About Online Frauds and Cyber Scams

1. What are the most common online frauds in India?

The most common ones include WFH scams, fake links, KYC frauds, parcel scams, phishing websites, counterfeit investments, and online shopping scams.

2. How do I identify a fraudulent website?

Check the URL, look for spelling errors, read reviews, and avoid paying if the prices look unrealistically low.

3. How can I stay safe while doing online banking?

Use only official apps, never click login links from messages,s and avoid using public Wi-Fi for transactions.

4. What should I do if I accidentally click a suspicious link?

Disconnect your internet, uninstall the unknown app, and report the fraud immediately on the cybercrime portal.

5. Is applying for an instant loan online safe?

Yes, but only if you choose a trusted and RBI-approved lender. Kissht offers secure loans through a verified platform.