Fake cashback through junk; New game of cyber fraud: Thugs are stealing personal data from the label of parcel box, thus making you a victim.

You threw the box of the parcel you just opened in the trash. But who knows, that box may become a way to reach your bank account. This is definitely strange, but according to cyber experts, that small sticker stuck on the parcels of Amazon and Flipkart, which we never even look at carefully, has become a gold mine for fraudsters. Just imagine, every time you order online, what is printed on the letter attached to the delivery box. This includes your name, phone number, full address, email ID, and sometimes even what you purchased. As soon as the packet is opened, this information seems useless, so people throw the box in the dustbin without thinking. The real story begins from here. Fraudsters pick up parcel boxes from garbage heaps or scrap bins and note down the information printed on them. After this they call pretending to be representatives of Amazon, Flipkart or any delivery company. Since they have your name, address, and information about recent purchases, the conversation feels genuine and trust is built quickly. They are then asked to fill a feedback survey with the promise of cashback, loyalty rewards or a discount on their next purchase. The game starts as soon as you click on the link sent on SMS, WhatsApp or e-mail. This link leads to a fake website, where bank details, card number or OTP is asked. Many times, a malicious software gets installed in the phone, which steals the password and banking details and directly withdraws money from the account. The most shocking thing is that this entire fraud starts from a place which we mistake as garbage. But as online shopping is increasing, the methods of fraudsters are also becoming new and vicious. But a small habit – erasing the labels before throwing away the cans – can save you from becoming the next victim of this new kind of fraud. So what is the way to protect against such fraud? The answer is as simple as the problem seems difficult. Before throwing away the box, tear, cut, or scratch the shipping label so that the information written on it cannot be read by anyone. Sensitive information can also be hidden with the Identity Protection Roller Stamp. Also, if someone on the call pretends to be a representative of an online shopping company and asks you to install an app, click on an unknown link or share OTP-bank details, then be alert. Companies like Amazon, Flipkart generally do not make such demands. To know the authenticity of any offer or cashback message, check the company’s official app.