Beware of Fake Calls! Department of Telecommunications Warns of Scammers
Beware of fraudulent calls claiming to be from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT)! These scammers try to scare people into revealing personal information by threatening to disconnect their phone numbers or alleging illegal activity.
DoT Confirms No Such Calls Authorized:
The DoT, along with the Ministry of Communications, has issued an official warning. They confirm that the DoT does not make such calls and advise people to stay vigilant.
Scam Tactics and How to Protect Yourself:
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| image: Truecaller Spam Identification |
Scammers are using various methods to trick people. Here's what to watch out for:
- Regular Phone Calls: Scammers may call directly, posing as DoT officials.
- WhatsApp Calls: Be cautious of WhatsApp calls, especially from international numbers (e.g., starting with +92).
The goal of these calls is to steal personal information like passwords, bank details, or social security numbers. This information can then be used for identity theft or financial fraud.
Here are some steps to take to protect yourself:
- Never share personal information over the phone: This includes passwords, bank account details, or social security numbers.
- Report suspicious calls: Use the “Chakshu-Report Suspected Fraud Communications” facility on the Sanchar Saathi portal (https://sancharsaathi.gov.in/).
- Check for unknown mobile connections: The same portal offers a “Know Your Mobile Connections” service to identify any unauthorized mobile connections registered under your name.
- Consider using spam identification apps: Apps like Truecaller with spam-blocking features can help you avoid these calls proactively.
By following these tips, you can protect yourself from falling victim to these scams.
Stay Informed, Stay Safe:
Remember, the DoT will never contact you via phone call to request personal information. If you receive a suspicious call, hang up immediately and report it using the methods mentioned above. Let's all work together to stay informed and avoid these fraudulent attempts.