DoT Issues Advisory Against Fake WhatsApp Calls. Know How Scammers Are Trying To Steal Your Data

According to the advisory, cybercriminals often make such calls to intimidate or extract personal information for cybercrimes or financial frauds.

If you receive a WhatsApp call from an unfamiliar number with someone claiming to be a government official from the Department of Telecommunications, be cautious as it could be a scam attempt aimed at stealing your personal information. The Ministry of Communications Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued a warning to Indian citizens regarding fraudulent calls where callers pretend to be DoT representatives. These callers may threaten to disconnect mobile numbers or falsely accuse individuals of involvement in illegal activities.

Additionally, the DoT advisory highlights the issue of WhatsApp calls originating from foreign mobile numbers (such as those starting with +92-xxxxxxxxxx) impersonating government officials to deceive people. It's important to note that Indian mobile numbers typically start with +91, while numbers starting with other country codes, like +92 for Pakistan, are foreign numbers.

Report Fraud Calls

WhatsApp users should exercise caution when receiving calls from unfamiliar numbers and should refrain from accepting video calls from strangers. It's advisable to verify the identity of the caller before engaging in conversations over WhatsApp.

As per the advisory, cybercriminals often use such calls to intimidate or extract personal information for cybercrimes or financial frauds. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) explicitly states that it does not authorise anyone to make such calls on its behalf. Therefore, individuals are urged to remain vigilant and avoid sharing any information when receiving such calls.

The DoT recommends reporting fraudulent communications through the 'Chakshu-Report Suspected Fraud Communications' feature on the Sanchar Saathi portal (www.sancharsaathi.gov.in). This proactive reporting assists the DoT in preventing the misuse of telecom resources for cybercrimes and financial frauds.

The Ministry added, “Further, citizens can check the mobile connections in their name at ‘Know Your Mobile Connections' facility of Sanchar Saathi portal (www.sancharsaathi.gov.in) and report any mobile connection not taken by them or not required. The DoT has also advised citizens to report at cyber-crime helpline number 1930 or www.cybercrime.gov.in in case of a victim of cyber-crime or financial fraud.”