As digital banking and UPI become part of daily life, cybercriminals are inventing new scams to exploit unsuspecting users. The latest threat — known as the “Call Merging Scam” — has already cost victims lakhs of rupees across India.
This sophisticated con plays on trust and confusion, merging calls between the victim and fake officials to extract sensitive financial information. Let’s break down how it works and how you can protect yourself.
What Is the Call Merging Scam?
In this scam, fraudsters use mobile network features or third-party apps to merge two calls — one with the victim and another with an impersonated “official,” such as a bank representative, police officer, or telecom executive.
Once merged, both callers are on the same line, making the setup sound legitimate. The scammer then convinces the victim that the issue is “official” and requires urgent verification of bank or UPI details.
How the Scam Works — Step by Step
1️⃣ The First Call:
A fraudster calls pretending to be from your bank or telecom provider, saying your account or SIM is at risk.
2️⃣ The Merged Call:
They “merge” your call with another fake number, claiming it’s the bank’s verification officer or RBI official.
3️⃣ Building Urgency:
You’re told your account will be frozen or SIM will be blocked unless you act immediately.
4️⃣ Data Extraction:
You’re asked to verify your account, UPI PIN, or OTP, supposedly for protection.
5️⃣ Instant Fraud:
Within minutes, your money is transferred out via UPI or unauthorized transactions.
Why It’s Dangerous
The scam feels authentic because:
You hear multiple voices on the call, sounding like a real conference.
The fraudsters often know your name, number, and partial account details from leaked databases.
They may even spoof official numbers to appear credible.
This manipulation of trust and technology makes the scam hard to detect in real time.
Real-Life Example
In Mumbai, a 34-year-old professional recently lost ₹7.5 lakh after a fraudster posed as a bank executive, merging a call with a “senior RBI officer.” The victim shared OTPs thinking it was an official verification.
Police later confirmed that both callers were part of the same cyber fraud network.
How to Stay Safe from the Call Merging Scam
✅ Never share OTPs, PINs, or banking credentials — even with supposed officials.
✅ Disconnect immediately if someone insists on merging calls for “verification.”
✅ Do not install unknown apps that request call or contact permissions.
✅ Verify independently by calling your bank’s official helpline.
✅ Register complaints via the National Cyber Crime Portal (cybercrime.gov.in).
💡 Pro tip: No bank, government agency, or police department will ever ask for OTP or UPI PIN verification over a call.
What To Do If You’ve Been Scammed
If you suspect you’ve fallen victim:
Block your account via your bank’s emergency helpline.
File a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in.
Report the number to the DoT’s helpline 1930.
Monitor your credit and UPI accounts for further misuse.
Acting within the first 24 hours significantly improves the chance of recovering lost funds.
Conclusion
The Call Merging Scam is one of the most deceptive forms of cyber fraud today — exploiting both technology and human trust.
By staying vigilant, verifying every call, and avoiding quick reactions to “urgent” requests, you can protect yourself from financial loss.
Remember: When in doubt, hang up and call your bank directly.
FAQs
Q1. What is a call merging scam?
It’s a fraud where scammers merge calls between you and fake officials to gain your trust and extract banking or OTP details.
Q2. Can someone merge my call without my permission?
Yes, fraudsters can trick you into joining a merged call through apps or spoofed networks.
Q3. How can I identify a fake merged call?
Be cautious if unknown callers claim to merge you with “bank officers” or insist on urgent verification.
Q4. What should I do immediately after realizing it’s a scam?
Hang up, contact your bank, block your account, and file a complaint on cybercrime.gov.in.
Q5. Is merging calls through official apps like WhatsApp safe?
Only merge calls with trusted contacts. Never share banking information during any call, regardless of the app.
Published on : 2nd November
Published by : SMITA
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