Credit Card Scam: Frauds on the rise in the name of credit card limit upgrades, with a single OTP potentially stealing lakhs of rupees.

Beware of Fake Credit Card Limit Upgrade Calls: One OTP Can Lead to Massive Financial Fraud

In recent months, a new wave of credit card scams has emerged across India, targeting unsuspecting users with the lure of a higher spending limit. Fraudsters posing as bank representatives or credit card executives are duping people into sharing confidential information, including One-Time Passwords (OTPs), which gives scammers direct access to victims’ bank accounts.

How the “Limit Upgrade” Scam Works

The modus operandi of these fraudsters is alarmingly simple yet highly deceptive. They typically call or message cardholders, introducing themselves as employees of a reputed bank or credit card company. The scammer then informs the victim that their credit card limit can be upgraded instantly, claiming it’s a special offer for loyal customers.

To make the offer look authentic, they send a fraudulent link via SMS, WhatsApp, or email. Once the victim clicks on the link, they’re directed to a fake banking page that closely resembles an official website. Here, the victim is asked to fill in sensitive details like card number, CVV, and expiry date — unknowingly giving the scammers complete access to their card information.

After obtaining these details, the fraudsters request the victim to share the OTP “for verification purposes.” The moment the OTP is shared, the money is transferred out of the account — sometimes amounting to several lakhs of rupees within minutes.

Banks Never Ask for OTPs or Personal Details

Financial institutions have repeatedly warned customers that they never request OTPs, CVV numbers, or PINs over the phone or through messages. Genuine bank representatives will always ask customers to visit the branch or access services through secure digital banking channels.

If you ever receive a call, text, or email offering to upgrade your card limit, do not click any attached link or share personal information. Instead, contact your bank directly using official customer care numbers to verify the authenticity of the offer.

Rising Trend of Cyber Frauds in India

The number of cybercrime and phishing cases in India has seen a steep rise in 2025, especially related to credit and debit card frauds. Cybercrime cells across the country are working to trace these networks, but prevention remains the best defense.

Experts say that online scams have become more sophisticated due to the use of social engineering techniques — a method where scammers manipulate people emotionally to gain their trust. Victims often believe they are communicating with legitimate bank staff until it’s too late.

How to Protect Yourself from Credit Card Scams

Never share OTPs or CVV numbers. Banks will never ask for these details over calls or messages.

Avoid clicking suspicious links. Always type your bank’s web address directly into your browser.

Enable transaction alerts. Set up SMS or email alerts to stay informed about every transaction.

Check statements regularly. Monitor your credit card and bank statements for any unauthorized activity.

Use multi-factor authentication (MFA). Add an extra layer of security for all online transactions.

Report suspicious calls immediately. Contact your bank’s helpline or register a complaint with the Cyber Crime Helpline (1930).

What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed

If you suspect fraudulent activity, act immediately. Contact your bank to block your card, file a complaint on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (www.cybercrime.gov.in), and visit your nearest police station to lodge an FIR. Timely action can help recover stolen funds or prevent further misuse of your account.

Digital Awareness Is Key

As India moves rapidly toward digital and cashless transactions, cyber safety awareness has become more important than ever. Scammers continue to exploit technology and trust to trick users into revealing personal information.

Being alert, verifying all communications, and educating family members—especially the elderly and young adults—about digital frauds are essential steps in protecting your finances.

Remember, if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. So, the next time you receive a call about a credit card limit upgrade or any financial reward, pause, verify, and report.