Beware of call merging scam: Cyber fraudsters targeting bank accounts

In a new wave of cyber fraud, scammers are using a deceptive technique involving call merging to gain access to victims' bank OTPs and siphon off money from their accounts.

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Cybercrime officials have warned citizens to be cautious if they receive calls from unknown numbers claiming to be friends or relatives. In many reported cases, fraudsters first gain your trust by saying a friend or family member has shared your number. While you’re on the line, you may receive another call from someone else — posing as a friend — and the fraudster will urge you to merge the calls.

Unknowingly, victims merge the two calls, during which time a transaction is initiated by the fraudsters. Simultaneously, a third call from a spoofed bank number or automated system delivers an OTP (One-Time Password). Since the call is now merged, the OTP gets shared with the fraudsters.

Once they have the OTP, the scammers quickly withdraw funds from the victim’s account.

Authorities are advising the public: never merge calls with unknown numbers, especially when prompted by someone claiming to know your contacts. This simple action could give cybercriminals access to sensitive information.

Stay alert and report suspicious calls to cybercrime helplines immediately.