Your SIM card is about to be deactivated… Press 9 to continue! If you receive such a phone call, it’s crucial to understand what’s at stake before taking any action. Scams like these are on the rise, and these types of calls are often designed to steal your personal information or money.
The caller usually presents themselves as a customer executive from a particular company and requests your details. Ultimately, using cunning tactics, they obtain your OTP details and siphon off the money from your accounts. It is essential to avoid such calls and report incidents appropriately. Here are some ways to help you recognize and report such scams.
How to Avoid Scam Calls?
Scammers continuously devise new strategies to con users, one of which often includes threats of SIM deactivation. Let’s explore what steps you should take when confronted with such calls:
Do Not React Immediately
If you receive a call of this nature, refrain from pressing any numbers, including “9” or any other. Doing so may signal to scammers that your number is active, making you a target for future scam attempts.
Hang Up the Call
Make sure to hang up immediately on any suspicious calls. You may also block the number from which the call was made to prevent further communications in the future.
Do Not Share Personal Information
Avoid disclosing any personal information over the phone, including bank details, OTPs, or information related to your SIM. Legitimate companies and government agencies will never request such sensitive information via phone calls.
Avoid Clicking on Links
If the caller asks you to click on a link, it may lead to a phishing site designed to steal your personal information. Always exercise caution.
How to Identify Fake Calls?
- Reputable companies or government agencies typically reach out to you after sending information via email or other channels.
- Any threats regarding SIM deactivation or other forms of consequences are clear indicators of a scam call.
- Be cautious of calls from unknown numbers or those displaying “Unknown” on your caller ID.
Where to Report Fraudulent Scams?
- You can file a complaint on government-operated portals dedicated to reporting fraudulent activities.
- Notify your telecom operator about such calls as they can track the caller and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety.
- Contact your regional consumer protection agency or authority responsible for telecommunications to register your complaint.
- If you believe you are at risk from such scams, visiting your local cybercrime unit to file a report is advisable.
- There are also dedicated government-run portals specifically aimed at handling such complaints.
Conclusion
Staying vigilant against scam calls is key to protecting your personal information and finances. Always remember to trust your instincts; if something feels off, it probably is. Educate your friends and family about these scams to help them stay safe. Together, we can build a more informed community that is less susceptible to fraud.
