Hyderabad, November 24, 2025 – Hyderabad City Police have issued a cybercrime alert warning citizens about a significant spike in OTP-related frauds reported across the city in recent weeks.
The police have identified multiple tactics being employed by fraudsters to dupe unsuspecting victims and have urged citizens to exercise extreme caution.
Common Fraud Tactics
Cybercriminals are using various methods to deceive victims:
Fake Bank/KYC Calls: Fraudsters impersonate bank officials or government authorities, claiming urgent KYC updates are required and requesting OTPs to “verify” account details.
Phishing Links & UPI Collect Requests: Victims receive suspicious links via SMS or WhatsApp, or unauthorized UPI collect requests that, once approved, drain bank accounts.
Fake Customer Care Numbers: Scammers create fake customer service numbers that appear in online searches, tricking people into calling them and sharing sensitive information.
SIM-Swap Scams: Criminals fraudulently port victims’ mobile numbers to their own SIM cards, gaining access to banking OTPs and other sensitive communications.
Safety Guidelines from Police
Hyderabad City Police have issued comprehensive safety guidelines:
Never Share Your OTP: OTPs are meant exclusively for your use. No legitimate bank, government agency, or customer service will ever ask for your OTP.
Verify Customer Care Numbers: Always verify customer care numbers from official websites of banks or service providers. Do not rely on numbers from internet searches or unsolicited messages.
Enable Security Features:
- Activate SIM lock on your mobile device
- Enable device security features
- Set up transaction alerts for all banking activities
Ignore Suspicious Communications:
- Ignore unknown calls claiming to be from banks or government agencies
- Disregard unsolicited refund or cashback claims
- Be wary of urgent requests to update KYC or “reactivate” accounts
Report Fraud Immediately
If you suspect fraud or have fallen victim to cybercrime:
Call: 1930 (National Cybercrime Helpline)
Report Online: www.cybercrime.gov.in
Quick reporting can help authorities track fraudsters and potentially prevent further financial loss.
Rising Cybercrime Threat
The alert comes amid increasing sophistication in cybercrime tactics. Fraudsters are constantly evolving their methods, exploiting people’s trust in banking institutions and leveraging social engineering techniques to extract sensitive information.
OTP-related frauds have become particularly prevalent as digital transactions increase. Victims often realize they’ve been scammed only after significant amounts have been withdrawn from their accounts.
Public Awareness Essential
Cybersecurity experts emphasize that public awareness is the first line of defense against such frauds. Citizens, especially elderly individuals who may be less familiar with digital security practices, need to be educated about these scams.
The Hyderabad City Police’s proactive alert demonstrates the importance of continuous vigilance and community awareness in combating cybercrime.
Remember: Your OTP is Your Password
Police reiterate the fundamental rule: Never share your OTP with anyone, under any circumstances. Legitimate organizations will never request this information, regardless of how urgent or official the call may seem.
Citizens are encouraged to share this alert with family members, particularly elderly relatives and those less familiar with digital security practices, to protect them from falling victim to these increasingly sophisticated scams.
