Bollywood actor loses Rs 1.5 lakh in online KYC scam: how to stay safe

By
Vivek Singh Chauhan
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Highlights
  • Actor Aftab Shivdasani received a message about a KYC update from an unknown source.
  • The actor received a warning that his account would be suspended if he didn’t comply.
  • To avoid such scams, don’t click on any links sent via SMS from unknown sources.

With the surge in cyber fraud cases across the country, Bollywood actor Aftab Shivdasani, known for his roles in movies such as Masti and the recent OTT show Special Ops 1.5: The Himmat Story, has recently become a victim of online scammers. He suffered a financial loss of Rs 1.5 lakh due to a fraudulent online Know Your Customer (KYC) scam.

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Actor Aftab Shivdasani duped of Rs 1.5 lakh

  • As per reports, the actor received a text message in which he was requested to update his KYC using a link that was provided.
  • The catch here was that the link turned out to be a fraudulent one, leading to him losing the money from his bank account.
  • The actor had received a warning that his account would be suspended if he didn’t comply.
  • He hence clicked on the link mentioned in the message and followed the instructions, only to receive another message afterwards, informing him that Rs 1,49,999 had been debited from his account.
  • Upon realising that he had fallen victim to a scam, the actor got in touch with the bank’s branch manager and lodged a complaint with the police.
  • As a result, a case has been filed under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including Section 420 (pertaining to cheating), as well as sections of the Information Technology (IT) Act.

How to stay safe from KYC scams

  • Don’t click on any links sent via SMS from unknown sources.
  • Beware of sharing personal information with unfamiliar callers or messages as they might impersonate friends or family, claiming emergencies and asking for money.
  • Always verify such requests by making a call to the person mentioned. If it proves to be a scam, report the number promptly.
  • Never share your confidential financial details with someone who says they’re from the bank.
  • Don’t install apps from random links you get in messages or emails. Instead, use official apps for banking or KYC purposes.