How to avoid OTP code scams

One-time passwords (OTPs) are an important security feature in the digital age, providing added protection for online transactions and account logins.

By requiring users to enter a unique authentication code sent to their personal device, OTP helps prevent unauthorized access even if the master password is compromised.

Unfortunately, however, scammers are constantly looking for ways to hijack OTP codes to steal personal information, financial information, or even both.

They use many sophisticated tricks to deceive victims, such as spoofing messages from banks, payment services or popular online platforms to lure users into providing their OTP codes.

OTP phishing is one of the emerging forms of attack that leverages old tactics, such as email, SMS, or fake call scams.

To protect yourself from this risk, you need to understand how OTP scams work as well as effective prevention measures. Below are important things you need to know to avoid becoming a victim.

What is OTP related scam?

Fraudsters use a variety of sophisticated methods to trick victims into sharing their OTP codes, which they then use to gain unauthorized access to personal accounts, steal sensitive information, or conduct fraudulent transactions. Here are some common methods they use to steal your OTP:

1. Phishing

Fraudsters impersonate legitimate organizations such as banks, credit unions, online retailers, or social media platforms by sending fake emails, SMS messages, or notifications.

These messages are often urgent in nature, asking you to verify your account, update your information, or resolve a security issue. When you click on the attached link, you will be taken to a fake website that looks exactly like the official website and asked to enter your OTP. Once you enter the code, the scammer will collect it and use it to take control of your account.

2. Voice Phishing

This is a form of telephone fraud in which a scammer impersonates a bank employee, customer service representative, or technical support staff member of a reputable organization.

They often call claiming to have unusual transactions, warn of security risks, or offer technical support. After creating a sense of panic and urgency, the scammer will ask you to provide an OTP code "to verify your identity" or "protect your account." If you fall for the trick and share the code, they will immediately use it to log in and take over your account.

3. Man-in-the-Middle Attack

This is a more sophisticated method where the attacker intercepts the communication between you and the legitimate service provider.

When you request an OTP to log in or confirm a transaction, the scammer will secretly intercept the message containing this code before you receive it, then use the OTP to access your account without you knowing.

These types of attacks often target public Wi-Fi networks or use malware to track personal data.

4. SIM Swap Attack

In some cases, scammers may use a technique called SIM swapping to take control of your phone number. They contact your carrier, impersonate you, and ask to transfer your phone number to a new SIM card in their possession.

Once they have control of your phone number, the scammer can request OTP codes from online services, receive the codes on their devices and then access your accounts without any hindrance.

Regardless of the method used, the ultimate goal of the scammer is to steal the OTP code to take control of your account.

If successful, they can not only conduct unauthorized transactions but also risk identity theft, financial fraud and serious damage to your privacy. So always be careful and vigilant when it comes to suspicious requests for OTP codes.

How to recognize the signs of an OTP scam

To protect yourself from OTP code theft scams, always be alert to the following suspicious signs:

1. Unexpected and unreasonable requests

Be suspicious of any text, email, or phone call that asks you for an OTP without your prior request. Legitimate organizations, like banks or online service providers, only send OTPs when you are making a transaction or logging into an account. If someone proactively asks you for the code, it may be a sign of a scam.

2. Create a sense of urgency and threat

Scammers often use panic tactics to pressure victims into taking immediate action. They may claim that your account is about to be locked, that there are unusual transactions, or that you will lose access if you do not provide the OTP immediately. Do not panic, calmly check the information from an official source before taking any action.

3. Sender information shows signs of abnormality

Before trusting any email or text message, double-check the sender's email address or phone number. Scammers often impersonate legitimate organizations by using a seemingly trustworthy address or contact number with one or a few small characters altered. If you see something unusual, don't reply or provide any information.

4. Suspicious links in emails or messages

If you receive an email or text message containing a link that asks you to log in or enter an OTP, don't click it. First, hover your mouse over the link to see if the actual website URL matches the official website. If the link has misspellings, strange characters, or looks unfamiliar, it's likely a fake website designed to steal your information.

5. Generic greetings and spelling mistakes

Reputable organizations will often personalize their messages to you, using your name instead of generic greetings like “Dear Customer” or “Dear User.” If an email appears unprofessional, contains spelling or grammatical errors, it’s likely a scam.

If you receive a suspicious request regarding OTP code, do not rush to follow it. Verify the information directly with the relevant organization before taking any action to ensure the safety of your account and personal data.

How to protect yourself from OTP scams

Staying safe from OTP scams requires vigilance and effective online security measures. Here are some important steps to help you protect your account and personal information:

1. Never share OTP code

The OTP code is for you only and no legitimate organization will ask you to provide it via phone, email or SMS. If you receive such a request, please verify it immediately by contacting the relevant organization directly via their official phone number.

2. Always enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) security

In addition to OTP, you should use other authentication methods such as authenticator apps or physical security keys to enhance account protection.

3. Be careful with suspicious links

Never click on links in unsolicited emails or text messages. Before doing anything, double-check the URL or go directly to the official website by typing the address into your browser.

4. Install security software and update it regularly

Use antivirus software and firewalls to protect your device from malware that can steal OTPs or personal information. Update your operating system and applications regularly to patch security holes.

If you suspect you have been scammed or accidentally shared your OTP code, take immediate action to minimize damage:

- Immediately change passwords on all related accounts:If you use the same password on multiple platforms, change it immediately to avoid the risk of mass attacks.

- Notify the account management organization:Contact the affected bank, service provider, or online platform to report the incident. They can help you temporarily lock your account, reverse fraudulent transactions, or provide additional protection steps.

- Follow your account:In the weeks or months after the incident, regularly check your bank accounts, emails, and online services for any unusual activity. If you see any suspicious transactions, report them immediately.

- Report to the authorities:Please report the incident to cybersecurity agencies and organizations such as the Department of Cyber ​​Security and High-Tech Crime Prevention (A05), Ministry of Public Security; or the Criminal Police Department (C02) under the Ministry of Public Security.

In each locality, contact the Department of Cyber ​​Security and High-Tech Crime Prevention (PA05). This will not only give you the opportunity to remedy the consequences but also help prevent scammers from continuing to operate.