🧠 Context:

As a cybersecurity enthusiast, my brain is wired to flag inconsistencies — and this time, it helped me shut down a potential scam within seconds.

I received a WhatsApp message from a number claiming to be Tata Arya Motors, offering a free vehicle pickup/drop for a car service.

Something didn't sit right. And I'm glad I trusted that instinct.

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🚨 Red Flags I Caught Instantly:

1. Unlisted Number: The message came from +91 98714 22688 — a number not listed on Tata's official site.

2. Inconsistent Naming: The contact appeared as "Alisha" instead of an official service rep or business account like "Tata Service Team."

3. Weak Verification Flow: The rep didn't ask for my vehicle number or identity — only my location.

4. Message Tone & Structure: Informal and vague phrases like "then your services will be due" — not something you expect from a corporate channel.

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🛡️ What I Did:

✅ Blocked and reported the number on WhatsApp.

✅ Verified Tata Arya's official contact through their website.

✅ Booked safely via their verified phone line.

✅ Filed a report with Tata Motors and documented everything.

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💡 Takeaway:

Even when a message looks official, trust your gut and verify everything. A real service center will:

Ask for vehicle registration details

Use verified contact numbers

Confirm your booking with proper SMS/email follow-ups

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🔐 Real-World Threat Awareness Matters

This wasn't some advanced cyberattack — it was a simple social engineering attempt. But simple tricks often work when people don't pause to verify.

That's where security instincts — even on a personal level — make a difference.

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Evidence:

None
None

🧠 — Leroy Anand 🔗 Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leroy-anand-648600349/