Cyber fraud through fake customer care calls

FE Team | Published: May 25, 2026 20:07:23

A concerning trend has recently been observed where fraudsters are impersonating bank officials through fake phone calls. This has happened not only to me but also to many other people. In most cases, the callers use phone numbers that closely resemble official bank call centre numbers. Sometimes the number contains a "+" sign or slight variations that ordinary customers often fail to notice. As a result, many people assume the call is genuinely coming from their bank.
These fraudsters usually introduce themselves as representatives from a bank's customer care or security department. They create panic by claiming that the customer's bank account is about to be blocked, suspended, or restricted due to a security issue or incomplete information. Then they ask the customer to provide sensitive banking details to "verify" the account.
Customers who are not fully aware of such scams often become victims. Many people unknowingly share important information such as account details, card numbers, PIN-related information, or One-Time Passwords (OTP). Once the fraudsters obtain these details, they quickly gain access to digital banking services and transfer funds from the customer's account. Social media platforms are now full of complaints from victims who lost money after trusting such calls.
One very important thing every customer should remember is that banks never ask customers to share OTPs, passwords, PIN numbers, or confidential banking information over phone calls, SMS, or social media. Any person requesting such information in the name of a bank should immediately be treated as suspicious.
This issue has become highly alarming in today's digital banking environment. Fraudsters are becoming more sophisticated and are using psychological pressure to manipulate customers. Therefore, awareness is now the strongest defence against such cyber fraud.
Customers should always verify suspicious calls through official bank helplines or verified communication channels before taking any action. Increasing public awareness and practising caution can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of these scams. In digital banking, staying alert is no longer optional - it is essential.
Md.Zakaria
First Assistant Vice President
CRM-CMSME Division
NCC Bank PLC, Head Office
zak.dufbs15@gmail.com