Imagine you’re out enjoying your day when a stranger approaches you in a panic. They plead, “Can I borrow your phone for a moment? It’s an emergency, and my phone’s dead!” It feels natural to want to help—after all, what’s the harm in letting them make a quick call? But what seems like a kind act could lead to serious financial trouble. Scammers have found ways to exploit kindness, using borrowed phones to access sensitive information like banking apps, OTPs, and personal messages.
Keep reading to know how this scam works and how you can stay safe.
Once the scammer gets hold of your phone, they can secretly make changes or download apps in just a few moments. One common trick is setting up call forwarding, which allows them to intercept your calls and SMS messages. This includes OTPs from your bank, allowing them to access your accounts without you realizing it.
How the scam works
What makes this scam so dangerous is how subtle it is. The scammer leaves no obvious trace, and by the time you notice something is wrong, they may have already drained your bank account.
Scammers often go after people who are distracted, in a rush, or less familiar with technology. They create believable stories—like needing to call a sick relative—to tug at your heartstrings and make you act quickly without thinking.
Protect Yourself Against Phone Scams
To safeguard yourself, consider using apps like Looffers.com, which offer various deals and help you stay informed about the latest scams. Always be cautious when lending your phone, and if someone appears overly frantic, it’s okay to say no. Remember, a little skepticism can go a long way in protecting your financial security.
Stay vigilant and share this information with friends and family to help them avoid falling victim to such scams!
