New Cyber Scam Targeting Businesses in Varanasi via QR Machines

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Cyber Frauds Target Traders and Business Owners in Varanasi with Payment System Manipulation

In a disturbing trend, cybercriminals in Varanasi have been targeting traders, shopkeepers, and business owners by posing as authorized agents of digital payment service providers.

The scammers identify potential targets through transaction data analysis and pose as representatives of online payment platforms like Paytm or PhonePe.
They offer to update or install QR code machines, replacing the SIM card in the process, convincing victims that it is necessary for security reasons.
Once the SIM has been replaced, the scammers take control of the linked bank account, securing loans and withdrawing substantial amounts.
At least 15 such cases have been reported in Varanasi, with victims losing lakhs of rupees.

According to law enforcement authorities, the public should be vigilant and aware of these types of scams. The authorities have issued a public advisory, cautioning citizens against falling prey to these scams.

The advisory emphasizes the importance of verifying the identity of anyone claiming to represent a company, never sharing OTPs, PINs, or passwords, and reporting any suspicious activity in a bank account immediately to the bank and the cyber helpline (1930).

The advisory also advises against allowing anyone to change a SIM or handle the machine and directs victims to contact the company’s official customer care for any machine or QR code updates.

This warning serves as a reminder that no legitimate company sends agents to replace or update machines without prior official notification.

Prevention is Key

The authorities urge vigilance and awareness among the public, particularly those in the trade and commerce sectors, to prevent further instances of this type of cyber-facilitated financial fraud.