Government Advisory on Impersonation Calls Threatening Mobile Disconnection

Summary and Important Points:

1. Advisory Issuance:

• Department of Telecommunications cautions against fraudulent calls impersonating DoT officials, threatening mobile disconnection or alleging misuse.

1. WhatsApp Scam Alert:

• Alert on WhatsApp calls from foreign numbers (+92-xxxxxx), impersonating government officials for fraud.

1. Cyber Crime Prevention:

• Citizens advised not to share personal information, as these calls aim at cyber-crime/financial fraud.

1. Reporting Mechanism:

• Report fraudulent communications via ‘Chakshu-Report Suspected Fraud Communications’ on Sanchar Saathi portal.

1. Mobile Connection Verification:

• ‘Know Your Mobile Connections’ facility on Sanchar Saathi portal to verify and report unknown mobile connections in one’s name.

Additional Information:

• Cyber Criminal Tactics: Utilizing fear and misinformation to extract personal details or financial information.

• DoT’s Stance: Clarification that DoT does not authorize such threatening calls or messages.

• Sanchar Saathi Portal: A platform providing citizens the tools to report fraud and verify mobile connections associated with their identity.

• Cyber Crime Reporting: Encouragement to use the national cyber-crime helpline (1930) or website for reporting instances of cyber-crime or financial fraud.

Examination Perspective and Concise Points for Use:

• Cyber Safety Awareness: Importance of recognizing and reporting fraudulent communications to prevent cyber-crime.

• Government’s Role: Measures taken by the government to combat telecommunication fraud and ensure citizen’s cyber safety.

• Public Vigilance: The critical role of public vigilance and awareness in combating cyber fraud.

Key Words to Remember:

• Department of Telecommunications (DoT)

• Cyber Crime

• Sanchar Saathi Portal

• Fraudulent Communications

• Cyber Safety

Link to Article : Press Information Bureau (pib.gov.in)

Released On : 29 March 2024