If you receive a call from an unknown number starting with +92, it's essential to avoid answering it, according to a cyber-safety and cybersecurity alert issued by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs. Such calls may originate from fraudsters who aim to deceive individuals into divulging sensitive information, potentially leading to financial losses.

Issued in August 2020, the warning advises against accepting normal or WhatsApp calls from numbers with the country code +92, which corresponds to Pakistan. These calls could be used to extract confidential data, such as OTPs or bank login credentials, which can then be exploited for fraudulent activities.

Fraudsters employ various tactics to appear legitimate, posing as bank representatives, offering enticing offers, or even pretending to be in urgent need of financial assistance as a romantic partner. Once they obtain the necessary information, victims may find it challenging to recover their money, as scammers swiftly transfer funds to fake accounts or make unauthorized online purchases.

To safeguard against such scams, individuals are urged to refrain from answering calls from unfamiliar international numbers, including those beginning with +92. If you inadvertently pick up such a call, it's crucial not to disclose any personal or financial details over the phone.

In addition to phone calls, cybercriminals may also utilize web and email-based scams to defraud unsuspecting individuals. These attacks often involve fake websites designed to capture sensitive information or phishing emails aimed at tricking recipients into divulging personal data or making unauthorized payments.

To mitigate the risk of falling victim to such scams, it's advisable to exercise caution when browsing the internet and responding to emails. Stick to reputable websites, and always verify the authenticity of the sender before sharing any sensitive information.