As digital banking and online services grow, scammers increasingly target bank accounts. Among their tactics, social engineering stands out as one of the most subtle yet dangerous. Rather than exploiting technical flaws, social engineering manipulates human psychology—trust, fear, curiosity, or sympathy—to extract sensitive data like verification codes or login credentials.
This article, prepared by DJK LLP—a law firm specializing in financial security and legal protection—explores how scammers use social engineering, the typical attack process, and how to defend yourself or seek legal remedies.
1. What Is Social Engineering?
Social engineering refers to techniques used by attackers to deceive victims into voluntarily disclosing confidential information. Common features include:
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Impersonation: Pretending to be bank staff, police, courier agents, or familiar contacts
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Emotional manipulation: Creating fear or urgency (e.g., “Your account is frozen”)
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Time pressure: Forcing quick decisions before critical thinking kicks in
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Data preloading: Using prior information to seem credible (e.g., name, address)
2. Common Tactics Used by Scammers
1）Fake Bank Calls
Fraudsters spoof bank hotlines and claim your account is abnormal, tricking you into giving away your bank details or verification codes.
2） Impersonating Police
Claiming your identity is linked to money laundering or fraud, scammers urge you to transfer money to a “secure account”—which is actually theirs.
3） Phishing Links or Fake Websites
Fake bank or logistics pages are sent via text or messaging apps. Once you log in, they capture your credentials.
4） Impersonating Friends on Social Media
Hijacking the accounts of your friends or family, scammers ask for money or send malware links under familiar names.
5）Fake Customer Service for Refunds
Scammers offer to “refund” due to a “transaction error” and ask you to install remote-control software like AnyDesk or TeamViewer—gaining access to your mobile banking.
3. How the Attack Works – Step-by-Step
1）Data Collection: Scammers mine data from social media, leaks, or phishing
2）Impersonation: Posing as a trusted entity (e.g., bank or police)
3）Psychological Pressure: Creating panic or urgency
4）Harvesting Sensitive Data: Requesting OTPs, passwords, or PINs
5）Execution: Quickly transferring funds—often within minutes
4. How to Defend Yourself
DJK LLP recommends the following strategies:
1）Stay Alert
Never believe claims of “frozen accounts” or “urgent investigations” over the phone without independent verification.
2）Verify Caller Identity
Hang up and call back using official numbers found on the bank’s website.
3）Never Share Verification Codes
No legitimate staff will ever ask for your OTP or SMS code.
4）Avoid Clicking Unknown Links
Don’t open links or scan QR codes sent via unsolicited messages.
5）Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Use both SMS and token-based authentication where available.
6）Use Secure Devices
Avoid handling banking tasks over public Wi-Fi or shared computers.
5. Legal Remedies After Fraud
If you fall victim to a scam, DJK LLP advises:
1）Report to Police Immediately
Keep all evidence—screenshots, chat logs, transaction records.
2）Contact Your Bank to Freeze the Account
Early action may help intercept or recover funds.
3）Consult a Lawyer
DJK LLP can help file legal claims against perpetrators or liable platforms.
4）Seek Civil Compensation
If a platform was negligent (e.g., weak security), you may be entitled to sue for damages.
6. Conclusion
Social engineering is about tricking you into handing over the keys to your account. In the digital age, security isn’t just technical—it’s psychological. DJK LLP reminds you: be skeptical of all requests involving sensitive data or transfers. When in doubt, consult a legal professional to protect your financial interests.
