Request to merge a call with a "friend" or "the bank"
A stranger asks you to merge his call with another incoming call, which is really your bank's OTP call, so he can hear the code and take money from your account.
Community reports: 0
How it works
- A caller says a friend gave him your number, or says he is from your bank, and talks about an event, a job interview or a problem with your account.
- At the same time, he starts a payment or a login on your account that makes your bank send an OTP by voice call, and when that call comes in he asks you to merge it, saying it is your friend or the bank's verification line.
- Once the calls are merged he hears the OTP being read out, or asks you to repeat it, and uses it to take money from your account.
What it looks like
Example messages. Numbers and links are masked.
Hello, I got your number from Rahul, we are planning a college reunion. Oh, he is calling me from his other number, just merge the call so all three of us can talk.
Sir, I am calling from your bank's card department. You will get a verification call now. Please merge it with this call so I can complete the process for you.
Red flags
- A stranger asks you to merge calls
- The second call is from your bank
- Someone else listening while an OTP is read out
- An OTP for something you did not start
The one question to ask
Why would a stranger need to be on the line when your bank calls you?
Already paid or shared details?
Call 1930 at once: in the first hour the money can often still be frozen before it moves on. Then call your bank on the number printed on your card, and file a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in with screenshots of every message and payment.
1930 · cybercrime.gov.in
Also seen as
- A "conference call" with a fake bank officer
- A caller who stays on the line and asks you to read out an OTP