A 52-year-old man from Pathanamthitta, Kerala, lost Rs 95,000 after being duped by cyber fraudsters while trying to service his water purifier. On August 23, he looked up an online toll-free number for a reputed water purifier company, unaware it was fake. Following a call from a fraudster posing as a company executive, he was instructed to download a remote access app.
This app allowed the criminals to control his phone and carry out three unauthorised UPI transactions that drained his account. The Pathanamthitta Cyber Police have registered a case under relevant laws and are investigating to recover losses, warning consumers to verify contact details only from official company websites.
How the Water Purifier Scam Unfolded
The victim searched online for the customer care number of a well-known water purifier brand and found what appeared to be a proper toll-free number. Unbeknownst to him, fraudsters had posted this bogus number online to lure unsuspecting customers. After calling, he was contacted back by someone claiming to be a company representative who instructed him to download an app to ‘activate’ service features.
The app was a remote access tool enabling criminals to control his phone and initiate unauthorised transactions, resulting in a loss of Rs 95,000. Police revealed this scam method is increasingly common and advised vigilance.
Growing Threat of Cyber Fraud in Consumer Services
With more consumers relying on online contact information and digital payments, similar scams have been rising nationwide, especially around festival seasons. Cybercriminals exploit trust in legitimate service processes to trick customers into downloading harmful apps or sharing sensitive data.
Police advise against trusting numbers found randomly online and recommend verifying contact details only from official websites. Reporting such incidents immediately helps authorities track fraud networks and protect more people from falling victim.
Expert Advice for Consumer Safety and Digital Vigilance
Experts recommend always confirming customer service numbers directly from official company websites or authorised sources before making calls. Never download apps or click on links sent by unknown contacts, and be wary of requests for remote access to devices. Customers should safeguard banking information and use strong, unique passwords with two-factor authentication where possible.
If suspicious activity occurs, immediately block the number, report to cyber police, and check all financial accounts for unauthorised transactions. Staying informed about common scams and practicing digital hygiene are essential to protecting oneself in the growing digital marketplace.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This distressing case highlights the increasing risks ordinary consumers face in an expanding digital economy dependent on online interactions. The Logical Indian urges readers to develop digital literacy and exercise caution while engaging with services online. Strengthening collective awareness and reporting fraudulent activities promptly can build a safer cyber environment where trust does not come at the cost of security.
