The scenario is common. You ordered food on Zomato, but it never arrived. Or you sent money via PhonePe, but the transaction failed. Frustrated, you open Google and search: “Zomato customer care number” or “SBI Bank manager number”
You see a mobile number listed on the top result or in the “Photos” section of Google Maps. You call it. A polite agent answers: “Yes sir, this is Zomato Support. To process your refund, please download AnyDesk and transfer ₹2 for verification.”
Stop. You are not talking to Zomato. You are talking to a cybercriminal sitting in a remote village.
In this CSNR Cyber Awareness guide, I explain why “Google Search” is the worst place to find phone numbers and how to spot a fake agent instantly.
The Mechanics: The “SEO” Trap
Scammers know that when you are angry (failed refund), you are not thinking clearly.
Google Maps Editing: Scammers edit the details of legitimate businesses (Banks, Restaurants, Courier offices) on Google Maps and replace the official landline with their own personal mobile number. If you spot one, you should report it immediately using the Google Business Redressal Form to protect others.
Sponsored Ads: They run fake Google Ads that appear at the very top of search results looking like “Official Support.”
The Remote Access Trick: Once you call, their only goal is to make you install a Screen Sharing App (AnyDesk/TeamViewer) to see your screen and steal your UPI PIN.
My Opinion: The “Mobile Number” Red Flag (Verdict)
I have seen educated professionals lose lakhs because they trusted a Google listing.
My Verdict: Official Support NEVER uses a Mobile Number. If the number starts with 6, 7, 8, or 9 (a standard Indian 10-digit mobile number), it is 100% a Scam. Big companies like Amazon, Swiggy, or HDFC Bank use Toll-Free Numbers (starting with 1800) or Landlines (011/022). They will never, ever ask you to call a personal mobile number for support.
The Golden Rule: Never search for customer care numbers on Google Images or Maps. Only trust the Official App.
How to Find Real Support Numbers?
If you have an issue, do not go to Google. Follow this “In-App” method instead.
1. Use the “Help” Section in the App
Zomato/Swiggy: Go to Profile > Help & Support > Chat with Us. Most modern companies do not even have a phone number anymore; they only offer Chat Support.
PhonePe/GPay: Go to the specific transaction that failed and click “Contact Support.” This opens a secure ticket.
2. Check the Official Website URL
If you must search on Google, look at the URL carefully.
Real:
www.sbi.co.inFake:
www.sbi-support-24x7.blogspot.comorwixsite.com
3. Twitter (X) Verification
The safest way to get attention is to tweet at the company.
Look for the Gold/Blue Tick (Verified Business).
Tag their official handle (e.g.,
@SBI_Official).Warning: Scammers also reply to tweets pretending to be bots. Do not DM anyone who doesn’t have a Verified Tick.
What If You Already Called Them?
If you called a fake number and they asked you to download an app (AnyDesk/QuickSupport):
Hang Up Immediately.
Delete the App: Uninstall AnyDesk/TeamViewer right now.
Disconnect Internet: Turn off Wi-Fi/Data to cut their connection to your phone.
Check for “Forwarding”: Sometimes they ask you to dial a code like
*401*. This forwards your calls to their phone (to steal OTPs).To cancel forwarding, dial
##002#immediately.
Did you mistakenly approve a transaction while on the call? Read our guide on How to Recover Lost UPI Funds immediately.
Conclusion: Support Comes to You, You Don’t Go to Support
In 2025, companies are moving away from phone support to save costs. If you find a “Direct Mobile Number” for a CEO or Manager on Google, it is too good to be true.
Be patient. Use the Chat Support. And remember: A real support agent will never ask for your UPI PIN or OTP to give you a refund.
Scammers often use these fake numbers to send dangerous links. Learn how to protect your device with the Best Free Antivirus for Mobile.
