Fraudsters are getting more sophisticated in today's digital world, and if you're not careful, even something as official as your BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) license could be abused. If you hold a BIS license, scam calls, phony emails, or phishing messages from individuals posing as BIS officials may target your information.
The purpose of this blog is to assist BIS license holders in identifying fraud attempts, comprehending the tactics used by con artists, and preventing themselves from becoming victims.
Why Are BIS License Holders Being Targeted?
A BIS license serves as evidence of excellence and conformity. Regretfully, fraudsters use it as a chance to trick companies by posing as third-party agents or BIS officers.
These scammers may:
• Demand immediate payments for "renewals" or "audits";
• Ask for personal or business information under false pretences;
• Say your BIS license is suspended or being verified.
Common Scams that often happen to people with BIS licenses
Scammers use different tricks to make themselves look real. The most common ways to do this are:
1. Fake Phone Calls
• Pretending to be BIS officials
• Warning about "non-compliance" or "license cancellation"
• Asking for PAN, Aadhar, or license numbers
2. Emails that are fake
• Come from unofficial or suspicious domains (like bishelpdesk@gmail.com)
• Use fake BIS logos, formats, and letterheads
• Ask for urgent action with attachments or links
3. Payment Scams:
• Asking for money through UPI, mobile wallets, or personal bank accounts
• Sending fake payment receipts or documents
• Making people panic by using threatening or time-sensitive language
Red Flags: How to Tell if You're Being Scammed
Be on the lookout for these common red flags:
|
Red Flag |
Meaning |
|---|---|
|
Email domains that aren't official |
Communication that is probably fake |
|
Pressure to pay right away |
Scam method to make mistakes happen |
|
Requesting OTPs or passwords |
Risk of identity theft |
|
Threats to take away BIS licenses |
A common way to commit fraud |
|
Links or attachments that seem fishy |
Possible phishing or malware |
How to Proceed If You Think It Might Be a Scam
If You Become a Victim of a BIS Fraud
If you have already shared sensitive details or made a payment to a scammer:
• Use the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal to file a cybercrime complaint;
• Bring all supporting documentation to the closest police station to report the incident.
•Block or reverse any unauthorized transactions by contacting your bank. Notify BIS of the fraud pattern through their public grievance platform.
•The sooner you act, the better your chances are of getting your money back or stopping more abuse.
Taking action quickly increases your chance of recovering money or preventing further misuse.
Secure Your Team Internally
Notifying your team members who handle licensing, payments, or email correspondence internally is equally crucial. Before disclosing any information or completing any BIS-related payments, teach them about fraud indicators and set up a transparent verification procedure.
Conclusion
Scammers are aware of how valuable your information is as a BIS license holder. It's crucial to remain vigilant, confirm all contacts, and report any suspicious activity because of this. Just because a call or email looks official or professional doesn't mean it is.The best defence against cybercrime is awareness. Make sure everything is correct before acting and teach your team to do the same. Don't allow your BIS license to be used as a means of deception; it is a sign of trust.
