What should be a celebratory moment for new car buyers is increasingly being overshadowed by fraudulent calls offering fake foreign tours and gift hampers. Cyber police have flagged a rising pattern in which recently registered vehicle owners are being approached with claims that their cars have won a lucky draw.
Officials said the callers inform victims that their newly purchased vehicle has been selected for an exclusive reward scheme. In several instances, the fraudsters allegedly attempt to convince owners to register for a membership programme or deposit a processing fee to receive the promised prize.
The alarming aspect of the scam is the level of detail reportedly available with the callers. Victims have stated that the fraudsters knew their full names, home addresses, car models and even the specific dealership from which the vehicle was purchased. This has prompted suspicion of a potential leak or unauthorised access to customer data.
Multiple new car owners in the city have shared similar experiences, stating that they began receiving calls within days of taking delivery of their vehicles. Though the mobile numbers varied, the callers followed a nearly identical script, repeatedly referring to the recent purchase and claiming eligibility for foreign travel packages or costly gift hampers.
In some cases, callers asked vehicle owners to visit a particular office location to claim the reward, while others insisted on enrolling in a scheme to unlock the benefits. However, when recipients declined to provide personal details or suggested that the gifts be sent by courier, the communication reportedly ceased.
Cyber police officials have clarified that no official complaint involving monetary loss has been lodged so far in connection with this modus operandi. Nevertheless, they described the situation as concerning, given the apparent access to confidential buyer information.
Authorities have indicated that automobile showrooms in the city will be contacted to review data handling practices and rule out any breach or unauthorised sharing of customer records.
Citizens have been urged to remain vigilant and avoid responding to unsolicited prize-related calls. Police have advised the public not to disclose personal or financial information to unknown callers and to immediately report any financial fraud by dialing the national cyber crime helpline 1930 or approaching the nearest police station.
With similar calls being reported by several recent buyers, officials warn that strict data protection and heightened awareness are essential to prevent the scam from spreading further.
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