In a recent incident, a small business owner received a call from a “customer” wanting to place an urgent bulk order. The discussion went smoothly, and the agreed amount was ₹5,000. Shortly after, the customer claimed to have “accidentally” transferred ₹20,000 instead and sent a screenshot of the payment. They requested the extra ₹15,000 be sent back immediately.
The business owner checked their bank app and saw no such credit, but under pressure from repeated messages, they transferred the amount — only to realise later it was a scam. The payment screenshot had been forged, and the money they sent was lost. This fraud method is called an overpayment scam. Criminals use fake proofs and urgency to make you send your own money.
How to Respond Immediately
- Verify First: Never trust screenshots. Log in to your bank app or call customer care to confirm if the money has been credited.
- Do Not Refund via New Transfer: If a genuine overpayment occurs, ask the sender to request a reversal from their bank or payment app.
- Pause and Think: Urgency is a scammer’s main weapon. Take a moment to check the facts.
If You Have Already Paid
- Contact Your Bank Immediately: Report the fraudulent transfer and request to freeze or recall the transaction.
- Dial 1930: India’s National Cybercrime Helpline for instant reporting.
- File a Complaint: Visit www.cybercrime.gov.in with all details.
- Keep Evidence: Save chats, payment screenshots, numbers, and call records to aid investigation.
Preventive Tips
- Double-check transactions in your statement, not just notifications.
- Use official payment links or invoicing tools that confirm payment.
- Trust your instincts — if something feels unusual, verify before acting.
Remember: A few minutes of checking can save you from a costly mistake.
