Stay Safe on Skype: Indian Authorities Will not arrest You on Skype
22/10/2024 | Skype Blogs | Skype Fraud Prevention
Skype is committed to keeping our users safe and we continuously work with authorities such as the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre on the latest scams and ensure we adapt our solutions and technology to combat these. Due to rise in scams such as Digital Fraud, we want to remind our users that government authorities will generally not contact you on Skype or ask for your personal information on Skype, arrest you on Skype or conduct trail of case on Skype.
What is Happening?
Digital arrest is a cybercrime technique where fraudsters impersonate law enforcement officials through SMS or video calls, falsely claiming that the victim or their family members are involved in criminal activities like drug trafficking or money laundering. These criminals then confine their victims by instructing them to keep their mobile cameras on, pressuring them to make urgent payments via online transfer to avoid arrest.
Why should you be careful?
Fraud and spam cases are increasing globally across platforms. Even the most vigilant individuals can be deceived by these sophisticated schemes. Usually, fraudsters target innocent public via spoofed/fake phone numbers, claiming to be from the police or government offices using scare tactics to make victims more susceptible to scams, creating false stories to extract personal information, bank account details, security answers, or sending money directly to the fraudsters.
The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre has issued a public advisory warning citizens that legitimate agencies do not conduct arrests through video calls, urging vigilance against these schemes. "Don't Panic, Stay Alert. CBI/Police/Customs/ED/Judges DO NOT arrest you on video call," the advisory emphasizes, highlighting the fraudulent nature of such interactions.
How Can You Keep Yourself Safe?
Be cautious about who you add on any communication app and only accept calls from people you know. Here are a few proactive steps to protect yourself on Skype:
1. Control Incoming Calls: Restrict calls to only people in your contacts list by going to Settings > Privacy > Only allow incoming calls from contacts.
2. Block Unwanted Users: Go to Contact's Profile > Block to prevent any unwanted contact.
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3. Report Spam or Suspicious Messages: Right-click or long-press on the message and select Report a concern to help keep Skype safe.
To stay safe on Skype and other platforms, ensure you are communicating with people you know, avoid answering unknown numbers, and always verify who you're communicating with. Share this information with your family and friends to keep them safe as well. Read more on how to protect yourselves on Skype.
Stay vigilant to safeguard yourself from digital frauds.
