Scammers are using a crafty trick called the “call merging scam” to snatch OTPs and empty bank accounts. The scam works when someone calls you pretending to be a friend or acquaintance and asks to merge your call with another number. In reality, the second number connects to a genuine OTP verification call from your bank and when you share the OTP, the fraudsters take over your account.
What is the call-merging scam?
- It starts with a call from a stranger claiming your number came from a mutual contact.
- The stranger asks you to merge the call with another number, supposedly a friend or an official.
- The second call is actually an OTP verification call from your bank. Once you merge the call, the scammer can listen in.
- When you read out or type the OTP, they use it to carry out unauthorised transactions.
Because the scam hinges on a trusted phone conversation and familiar call-merge function, many people fall victim before they realise what’s happening.
Why this scam works
The call-merge feature is normally harmless and useful but scammers exploit it. They build trust by pretending to be someone you sort of know, then slip in the OTP request at just the right moment.
The scam is especially dangerous because victims often only learn they’ve been cheated once the money is gone.
How to stay safe, what you should do
- Never merge calls with unknown numbers. If someone asks for a merge, especially out of the blue, treat it as suspicious.
- Always verify the caller’s identity. If someone claims to be from your bank or a friend, call them back using a number you already have, don’t trust incoming caller-IDs.
- Know that banks never ask for OTPs over the phone. If someone calls and requests it, hang up.
- If you receive an OTP for a transaction you didn’t start, report it immediately. Contact your bank, and if possible call the national cybercrime helpline.
What you should know now
This scam is real, and it’s spreading fast. Many people across cities have lost funds because they didn’t suspect a normal-looking call.
The safety rules are simple, treat unexpected calls with caution, never share your OTP, and verify every caller, especially if they ask to merge calls.
It only takes one moment of carelessness for scammers to strike.
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