New Delhi | January 4 2026 | As digital payments and online shopping continue to surge, cyber fraud tactics are evolving just as fast. From reward points scams and fake product listings to bogus credit card offers and so-called “digital arrest” rackets, recent cases underscore a stark reality: cybercriminals are targeting human behaviour more than technical vulnerabilities.
Recent assessments show that new scam patterns rely on urgency, greed and fear to coax victims into revealing sensitive details—whether OTPs, UPI PINs, or permissions for remote access—often leading to instant financial losses.
Social Engineering vs Technology
According to the Future Crime Research Foundation, the majority of cyber fraud cases emerging in India today involve social engineering rather than technical hacking. In other words, criminals bypass systems by psychologically pressuring people into making mistakes.
An FCRF report notes that “warnings about expiring rewards, limited-time offers, and threats of legal action are the three most effective triggers used in scams.” The report cautions that unless digital discipline and user behaviour improve, both the scale and sophistication of fraud are likely to rise.
Reward Points: New Bait, Old Trap
One of the most common scams now involves claims that reward points are about to expire. Victims receive calls or messages from imposters posing as bank or wallet representatives, often containing malicious links. Clicking these links can lead to OTP capture or permission abuse, quickly draining accounts.
Experts reiterate that no legitimate bank or wallet provider asks for OTPs over phone calls or conducts transactions through third-party links.
Fake Listings and the Discount Illusion
Another fast-growing trend is fake product listings on social media and online marketplaces. Mobiles, electronics, vehicles, and premium gadgets are advertised at steep discounts, luring buyers into making advance payments. Once paid, neither the product arrives nor does the seller remain traceable.
FCRF points out that such scams frequently use stolen images, fake reviews and cloned profiles to manufacture credibility.
‘Digital Arrest’ and Senior Citizens
Perhaps the most alarming pattern is the rise of “digital arrest” scams, where fraudsters impersonate investigative or law-enforcement officials and intimidate victims via video calls, claiming they are under investigation or in custody. Senior citizens have emerged as the most vulnerable group in these cases.
Former IPS officer and renowned cybercrime expert Triveni Singh explains:
“Modern cybercrime is less about technology and more about psychology. Criminals create fear, temptation or urgency so that victims lower their guard and hand over access themselves.”
He warns that sharing OTPs, UPI PINs or enabling screen sharing is effectively the same as handing over the keys to one’s home to a stranger.
WhatsApp Hacks and APK Fraud
Hacked WhatsApp accounts used to solicit money from contacts and fake APK apps that steal device and banking data have also become common. In particular, APKs masquerading as RTO challans or official notices can compromise phones and financial apps once installed.
Vigilance Is the Best Defence
Experts agree on one point: withdrawing from digital transactions is not the solution. The answer lies in pausing before acting, questioning unsolicited calls or links, and sharing information only through official channels.
The message for Digital India in 2026 is clear: the faster the convenience, the greater the need for caution. Cybersecurity is no longer just a test of technology—it is increasingly a test of human behaviour.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
