Stop. Think. Verify.
Protect Yourself from Scams and Financial Fraud in Nepal

Financial fraud is becoming increasingly common in Nepal, affecting both individuals and businesses. Criminals use a range of deceptive methods to steal money, personal information, and sensitive financial data. Awareness and caution remain the most effective defences. Taking a moment to verify before acting can prevent significant financial and emotional harm.

Below are some of the most common types of fraud reported in Nepal, along with practical steps to reduce your risk.

Mobile Banking and Digital Wallet Fraud

How it happens:
Fraudsters persuade users to disclose one-time passwords (OTPs), PINs, or login details, often by pretending to be bank or e-wallet support staff. Calls or messages may appear urgent or official.

How to protect yourself:

Never share OTPs, PINs, or passwords with anyone, including bank or wallet staff.
Verify contact details independently before responding to support requests.
Enable two-factor authentication on all banking and wallet accounts.

ATM and Debit/Credit Card Fraud

How it happens:
Criminals install skimming devices on ATMs to capture card data, or call victims claiming their card is blocked and requesting PIN verification.

How to protect yourself:

Shield the keypad when entering your PIN at ATMs.
Monitor bank statements regularly for unfamiliar transactions.
Avoid using ATMs in poorly lit or isolated locations.

Fake Job Offers and Work-from-Home Scams

How it happens:
Scammers advertise attractive job opportunities and request advance fees for registration, training, or equipment—often for vague “online” or “part-time” roles.

How to protect yourself:

Research the employer and verify their online presence.
Avoid any job that requires upfront payment.
Apply only through recognised job portals or official company websites.

Online Shopping and Fake E-Commerce Scams

How it happens:
Fake online shops, often promoted through social media, take payments for goods that never arrive or deliver poor-quality imitations.

How to protect yourself:

Use established e-commerce platforms with verified sellers.
Opt for cash on delivery when available.
Check reviews and confirm seller contact information before purchasing.

Investment and Ponzi Schemes

How it happens:
Fraudsters promise unusually high returns in a short time, often encouraging participants to recruit others for commissions.

How to protect yourself:

Be sceptical of schemes that guarantee quick or risk-free profits.
Confirm whether the company is registered with the appropriate financial regulators.
Seek independent financial advice before committing significant funds.

Lottery and Prize Scams

How it happens:
Victims are told they have won a lottery, cash prize, or vehicle and are asked to pay a “processing” or “release” fee.

How to protect yourself:

Do not pay fees for prizes you did not enter to win.
Verify claims directly with official organisers.
Ignore unsolicited prize notifications from unknown contacts.

Social Media and Identity Theft Scams

How it happens:
Fake profiles impersonate real individuals to request money or information. In other cases, hacked accounts are used to solicit funds from friends and family.

How to protect yourself:

Enable two-factor authentication on social media accounts.
Avoid accepting requests from unknown individuals.
Confirm any financial request through a direct phone call or separate channel.

Reporting Fraud in Nepal

If you believe you have encountered or fallen victim to fraud, act promptly:

Nepal Police Cyber Bureau: Report online scams and cyber fraud at 01-4411210
Nepal Rastra Bank: Report financial fraud at 01-4419803
Your bank or digital wallet provider: Contact them immediately if your account may be compromised

Stay Alert, Stay Informed

Pause before making payments or sharing personal details. Verify information from reliable sources and encourage family members—particularly older or less tech-savvy individuals—to do the same. Staying informed about common scam tactics is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself.

A safer digital environment in Nepal begins with awareness, caution, and collective responsibility.