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The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued a stern warning to citizens regarding fraudulent WhatsApp calls originating from certain numbers. These calls, impersonating government officials, threaten unsuspecting individuals with the disconnection of their phone numbers, prompting concerns of potential financial fraud .
According to the DoT advisory, mobile users are being targeted by fraudsters who masquerade as DoT officials, falsely alleging the involvement of their phone numbers in illicit activities. This deceptive tactic bears resemblance to the modus operandi observed in cybercrimes associated with agencies like the CBI, where individuals are falsely accused of illegal involvement.
Highlighting specific numbers of concern, the DoT cautions against WhatsApp calls originating from foreign sources, particularly those starting with +92-xxxxxxxxxx. These numbers, posing as government entities, aim to deceive individuals and extract personal information for potential cybercrimes and financial fraud.
In response to these alarming developments, the DoT advises citizens to promptly report suspicious communications through the ‘Chakshu-Report Suspected Fraud Communications’ feature on the Sanchar Saathi portal (www.sancharsaathi.gov.in). Additionally, individuals are urged to utilize the ‘Know Your Mobile Connections’ feature on the same portal to verify and report any unauthorized connections.
Furthermore, victims of cybercrimes or financial fraud are encouraged to report incidents to the dedicated cybercrime helpline number 1930 or via www.cybercrime.gov.in. These reporting mechanisms play a crucial role in safeguarding the public against fraudulent activities and ensuring the integrity of telecom resources.
