How the New Call-Merging Scam Empties Bank Accounts Without You Realising It
A dangerous scam is circulating where fraudsters trick victims into merging two phone calls, allowing them to intercept OTPs and empty bank accounts in seconds. This method, known as the “call-merging scam,” is fast gaining ground across India and exploits basic phone features that most users trust.
Here’s how the scam unfolds:
- You receive a call from someone claiming to be a friend of your friend — for instance, “Puja’s friend.” They casually talk about your interests to build rapport.
- While you’re on the call, another number rings your phone. The scammer says, “That’s Puja calling you from her alternate number; her main number isn’t connecting.”
- You’re then asked to merge both calls so everyone can talk together.
- Unknowingly, the second call is actually an OTP or verification call from your bank or UPI app, which the scammer listens to silently once merged.
- Within seconds, the OTP is used to transfer money, leaving your bank account empty before you even realise it.
Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Scam
This scam cleverly mixes human psychology and technology. Here’s how each stage works to trap unsuspecting victims.
| Stage | What Happens | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Building Trust | Scammer pretends to know you through a friend and engages in casual talk. | You lower your guard thinking the caller is genuine. |
| Triggering the Merge | You are asked to merge calls with another number claimed to be your friend. | Merging calls feels natural and harmless. |
| Capturing OTP | The second line is actually a bank OTP call; the scammer listens silently. | The OTP is spoken aloud, giving them access to your funds. |
| Executing Fraud | Using the OTP, the scammer authorises a transaction instantly. | Because the OTP was valid, the system treats it as your authorisation. |
Why This Scam Is Hard to Detect
Unlike traditional phishing or fake app scams, this method uses genuine features of your phone and bank security process. Since the OTP is entered correctly, the transaction appears legitimate. Fraudsters rely on human instinct — when we hear a known friend’s name or familiar voice, we rarely double-check authenticity.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
- Unexpected calls from unknown numbers claiming to be friends of your contacts.
- Requests to merge calls or add someone on a conference line.
- Receiving an OTP or verification call while you’re talking to someone else.
- Anyone asking for the digits of an OTP or to “confirm” numbers you hear.
- OTP received without performing any transaction yourself.
Be extra cautious if someone asks you to merge a call — this is a key red flag. No bank, financial institution, or UPI service will ever ask you to merge calls or share OTPs over the phone.
How to Protect Yourself
- Never merge calls with anyone unless you are 100% sure of both participants.
- Always verify a caller’s identity by calling your actual friend on their known number.
- Do not share or repeat any OTPs received on your phone during a call.
- Immediately hang up if a caller insists you merge calls or share digits.
- Block suspicious numbers and report them to your bank’s fraud helpline or the national cybercrime number 1930.
- Enable SMS or app alerts for all bank transactions to detect any unauthorised activity early.
- Keep your mobile operating system and banking apps updated for the latest security protections.
What To Do If You Fall Victim
- Contact your bank immediately to block transactions and freeze your account if needed.
- Change your UPI PIN, net-banking password, and other login credentials.
- Check your bank statements for unauthorised transfers and raise disputes.
- Report the incident on the National Cybercrime Portal and inform local cyber police.
- Alert your contacts that your number might have been targeted to prevent further fraud.
Want to stay ahead of market scams and security tricks? Stay informed through our weekly Nifty Option Tip to combine market awareness with financial safety.
Investor Takeaway
Indian-Share-Tips.com Nifty Expert Gulshan Khera, CFP®, who is also a SEBI Regd Investment Adviser, advises that digital vigilance is as important as investment wisdom. While investors focus on returns, protecting banking access from such scams is equally vital. A small act of caution — like refusing to merge calls — can save entire savings.
Discover more expert insights and safety-first financial perspectives at Indian-Share-Tips.com, which is a SEBI Registered Advisory Services.
Related Queries on Phone Fraud
- What Is a Call-Merging Scam and How Does It Work?
- How Do Fraudsters Use OTPs to Empty Bank Accounts?
- What Should You Do If You Receive a Fraudulent Call?
SEBI Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice. Readers must perform their own due diligence and consult a registered investment advisor before making any investment decisions. The views expressed are general in nature and may not suit individual investment objectives or financial situations.
