Common Scams 
D uring this era of rapid digitalization, online scams have grown more convincing, conniving, and nerve-wracking. Victims, gullible and vulnerable, especially senior citizens often fall prey to digital fraudulence, such as the
Nigerian Inheritance.
Scam which has conned millions and claimed victims globally. Indian netizens, especially the less tech-savvy older generation, must be vigilant of this scam so they won’t fall victim to similar deceptions.
How Does the Nigerian Inheritance Scam Work?
Nigerian Inheritance Scam is a form of fraud where con artists send messages, emails, or letters stating that the victim is owed a huge inheritance by a recently deceased relative or benefactor who has left them a fortune in Nigeria. The twist? The victim is required to pay several “fees,” “taxes,” or “charges” first to facilitate these funds. The scammers keep asking for money until the victim catches on or their entire bank account empties.
For example, you might receive an email from someone claiming to be a bank executor, saying a wealthy philanthropist has passed away and left behind millions for charity. Since no rightful heirs have come forward, they suggest you could help direct the funds to a good cause and claim a portion for your hard work. But before anything can be processed, they request your personal information such as your bank account number or a minimal “administrative fee” to complete the “transfer”. The catch? Once you comply, the scammer disappears, and you’re left with financial loss or even identity theft.
A recent American case exposed the scale of this scam. A Nigerian citizen, Amos Prince Okey Ezemma, and his co-conspirators swindled more than 400 victims, accumulating over $6 million from their victims. They primarily manipulated older citizens, coaxing them to make payments via a chain of intermediaries.
In India as online scams surge because of digital proliferation, it is important for us to identify warning signs. By becoming aware we equip ourselves better to protect not only ourselves but those in our family who are less tech-savvy and unaware of digital fraudulence from becoming the next victims.
Red Flags to Watch For:
- Unsolicited Messages: If you receive an email, SMS, or WhatsApp message claiming you have inherited money from an unknown person, be suspicious.
- Requests for Upfront Payments: Legitimate inheritances do not require upfront fees for processing.
- Poor Language & Grammar: Many scam messages contain spelling and grammatical errors, as they originate from non-professional sources.
- Unverifiable Claims: If you are asked to pay fees to a foreign bank or a person with no verifiable credentials, it’s likely a scam.
- Requests for Personal Information: Never share your banking details, Aadhaar, PAN, or passport information with unknown sources online.
How to Protect Yourself
- Verify the Claim: If you receive such a message, independently verify the source. Consult legal professionals or family members before taking any action.
- Do Not Engage: Avoid responding to emails or messages from unknown sources. If you suspect a scam, block the sender.
- Report Suspicious Activity: In India, report cyber frauds to the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (www.cybercrime.gov.in) or call 1930.
- Educate Elderly Family Members: Scammers usually target senior citizens who may not be tech-savvy. Educate them about online scams and assist them with digital transactions.
- Use Strong Cybersecurity Measures: Install reliable antivirus software, enable two-factor authentication for banking and email accounts, and regularly update passwords.
What to Do If You Have Been Scammed
- Stop all communication with the fraudsters immediately.
- Do not send any more money.
- Report the incident to Indian cybercrime authorities and your bank to attempt to recover lost funds.
By adopting safe digital practices, we can safeguard ourselves and our loved ones from falling victim to fraud.
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