In today’s digital world, online banking, UPI payments, and card transactions are part of daily life. However, this convenience comes with a rising risk of cyber fraud. Every day, people receive text messages, emails, and WhatsApp links that appear to be genuine alerts from banks, delivery services or government departments. One careless click on these fake links can give cybercriminals access to your personal details and allow them to drain your bank account within minutes. Understanding how these scams operate and knowing how to stay cautious is essential for protecting your money and keeping your online activity safe.How fraudsters empty bank accounts using fake linksCybercrime has surged in recent years, with scammers relying heavily on phishing links sent through SMS, WhatsApp, and email. These messages usually claim that your bank account is blocked, your KYC is expiring, a refund is pending, or a major discount sale is underway. They often use urgent language and official-looking logos to trick recipients into sharing sensitive personal information, putting their finances and data at serious risk.Once clicked, these links redirect users to fake websites designed to look exactly like banking or shopping portals. From the moment a victim enters details such as their:Card numberPasswordCVVMobile numberOTP Scammers capture this information and immediately start transferring money out of the account. Because the pages look so authentic, many people fail to notice the deception until it’s too late.How to avoid becoming a victim of online fraudStaying safe online begins with vigilance. Banks never ask for sensitive information such as passwords, OTPs, or PINs via SMS or email. Any message that does so should be ignored and deleted immediately. Always use the official banking website or app and never links received through messages. If you suspect anything unusual, contact your bank’s official customer care number.What to do if you fall victim to a fraudulent linkIf you’ve clicked a suspicious link or your money has been stolen, time is critical. Take immediate action by reporting the fraud.The National Cyber Crime Helpline number is 1930.You can also complain on www.cybercrime.gov.inQuick reporting dramatically improves the chances of recovering lost funds.Understanding phishing emailsA phishing email is a fraudulent message created to trick you into sharing sensitive information or performing unsafe actions. These emails often pretend to come from trusted organisations such as banks, tech companies, delivery services or even your workplace.According to global security reports, email remains the most common entry point for cyberattacks, making phishing one of the most dangerous and persistent online threats.How to identify a phishing emailSeveral warning signs can help you recognise phishing attempts:Suspicious or misspelt sender addressLook out for unusual domains or tiny spelling variations designed to mimic legitimate addresses.Urgent, threatening languageScammers create panic by warning of account suspension or unauthorised access.Spelling and grammar errorsPoorly written content often signals a scam email.Unexpected attachments or linksNever click or download anything you weren’t expecting.Requests for passwords or bank detailsLegitimate companies do not ask for such information via email.What to do when you receive a phishing emailThe most important rule is simple: don’t panic, and don’t click.Avoid replying, clicking links, downloading attachments, or calling any number mentioned. Even responding to say “this is a scam” confirms your email is active and invites more attacks.Report the emailWorkplace users should alert their IT or cybersecurity teams.Personal email users can report phishing through tools provided by Gmail, Outlook and other platforms.You can also report incidents to cybersecurity authorities in your country or region.Delete the Email SafelyOnce reported, delete the message and clear your deleted folder. Never forward suspicious emails to friends or colleagues.What to do if you have already clicked the linkIf you’ve interacted with a phishing email clicked a link, entered details, or downloaded a file act fast.Disconnect from the internet.Run a full antivirus scan.Change your passwords from a different, safe device.Enable multi-factor authentication.Notify your bank or IT department immediately.Prompt action can limit damage and stop attackers from gaining deeper access.Preventing future cyber and phishing attacksUse strong filters and security softwareEnsure your email service or IT team uses robust spam filters to block malicious content before it reaches you.Keep devices updatedOutdated systems are easier to exploit. Regular updates strengthen your security.Increase cyber awarenessFor organisations, regular staff training and phishing simulations significantly reduce risks.Seek support from trusted Cybersecurity ExpertsSpecialised IT security partners can audit systems, strengthen defences, and offer swift incident response.