Nepal has seen a rapid rise in online platforms over the past decade. With innovation in science and technology, Nepalese are increasingly embracing digital lifestyles. The digital payment revolution began in 2009 with the launch of eSewa, and since then, the shift from line to online has accelerated, thanks to the ease and convenience digital payments provide.
Today, tasks that once required long queues such as mobile top-ups, utility bill payments, ticket bookings, or even investing in mutual funds can be done instantly online. This shift has transformed Nepal’s financial landscape, making everyday life simpler and more efficient.
However, with this digital transformation comes a serious challenge: the alarming rise of digital financial scams.
Digital Financial Scams in Nepal
Digital financial scams are fraudulent activities conducted through online platforms to deceive people and steal money or personal information. These scams often involve fake websites or apps, phishing emails or messages, misleading offers, and impersonation of trusted entities. The goal is to trick victims into sharing sensitive details like bank account numbers, passwords, PINs, or OTPs.
With the rise of mobile banking, e-wallets, and online shopping in Nepal, scammers are finding it easier to exploit users through anonymous transactions, counterfeit products, and fake social media profiles.
Several factors contribute to the growing number of scams: low awareness (especially in rural areas), rapid digital adoption, global reach of fraudsters, ease of execution, and misuse of social media. Despite laws and regulations, controlling scams remains challenging due to the vast popularity of online platforms and the large user base.
Common Types of Digital Scams in Nepal
1. Investment Scams
Fraudsters lure people with promises of high returns, often through Telegram or WhatsApp groups. They may share fake screenshots or testimonials as proof. Once money is transferred, the scammer disappears.
How to stay safe:
- Research companies before investing.
- Avoid quick return offers from strangers.
- Be cautious with cryptocurrency and wire transfers.
- If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
2. Lottery and Gift Scams
Victims receive messages claiming they’ve won a lottery or prize. Scammers then demand “taxes” or “processing fees” before releasing the prize which never arrives.
How to stay safe:
- Remember: legitimate lotteries never ask for upfront fees.
- Verify through official sources.
- Ignore and block messages from unknown senders.
- Never share banking details or OTPs.
3. Romance and Sextortion Scams
Fraudsters create fake profiles to build trust online, often targeting young people. Later, they ask for money or blackmail victims with intimate photos or videos.
How to stay safe:
- Be cautious with online relationships.
- Avoid sharing private images or money with strangers.
- Keep social media accounts private.
- Report threats immediately.
4. Phishing and OTP Scams
Scammers pose as bank or wallet representatives, contacting victims about account issues or offers. They ask for OTPs, PINs, or login credentials to steal money.
How to stay safe:
- Banks and wallets will never ask for OTPs or passwords.
- Verify suspicious calls through official channels.
- Enable two-factor authentication.
- Educate seniors about such scams.
5. Impersonation Scams
Hackers gain access to social media accounts and message friends or family, pretending to be the account owner, often requesting urgent financial help.
How to stay safe:
- Use strong, unique passwords.
- Enable 2FA.
- Verify requests for money through a direct call before acting.
6. Fake eCommerce Scams
Fraudsters create fake online shops on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok. After taking advance payments, they block victims and disappear.
How to stay safe:
- Check reviews, ratings, and seller details.
- Avoid upfront payments to unknown sellers.
- Use eSewa eScrow for safe online transactions.
7. Fake Job Advertisement Scams
Scammers post fake job ads offering high pay with little effort. Victims are asked to pay upfront fees for training or placement, after which the scammer vanishes.
How to stay safe:
- Never pay for job opportunities.
- Research companies carefully.
- Avoid jobs promising unrealistic salaries or quick money.
8. Flat Rent Scams
Fraudsters post fake rental listings at attractive prices. Victims are asked for advance payments to “secure” the flat, but the scammer disappears.
How to stay safe:
- Visit properties or request video tours before paying.
- Be cautious of unusually low prices.
- Never send money before signing a lease.
- Use trusted rental platforms.
As Nepal goes digital, staying cautious is crucial. Protect yourself by keeping personal info private, verifying offers, staying skeptical of unsolicited requests, and using secure payment methods like eScrow. Awareness and safe practices help us enjoy the benefits of the digital revolution without falling victim to scams.
