You receive a call or SMS from an unknown number claiming to be from your telecom provider. The message is alarming:
“Dear Customer, your mobile number will be barred in the next 2 hours due to verification issues. Call this number immediately to resolve the problem.”
Panicked by the thought of losing access to their phone, many users quickly follow the instructions. This is exactly what the scammers are counting on.
The Modus Operandi
- Creating Panic:
Scammers rely on urgency and fear. The thought of losing mobile connectivity, which affects banking, OTPs, and personal communication, compels victims to act hastily without verifying the claim. - Impersonation:
The caller identifies themselves as a customer care executive from your telecom provider. They may even mention the correct telecom company name to sound credible. - Requesting “Verification Details”:
The scammer asks for sensitive information like your name, address, Aadhaar number, or SIM card details. Sometimes, they request you to send an SMS to a specific number to “validate” your identity.(This SMS often contains codes that allow the scammer to transfer ownership of your SIM card or link it to fraudulent accounts.) - Accessing Your Mobile Number:
Once they have control of your SIM or mobile number, scammers use it to:- Receive OTPs and gain access to your bank accounts.
- Register your number on payment apps and siphon funds.
- Impersonate you to commit further fraud.
Real-Life Example
Sunita, a college professor, received a call late at night from a person claiming to be from her telecom provider. The caller said her SIM card would be deactivated unless she verified her identity. Sunita, worried about her connectivity, provided her details and sent an SMS as instructed.
Within minutes, her mobile network stopped working. By the next morning, ₹1 lakh had been transferred from her bank account through multiple small transactions.
They will call from whats app claiming themselves as Mumbai Police whose photo is also enclosed here
How to Identify and Avoid This Scam
- Stay Calm:
Scammers create urgency to cloud your judgment. Take a moment to think before acting. - Verify the Caller:
Always contact your telecom provider directly through their official customer care number to confirm any issues. - Do Not Share Sensitive Information:
Never share OTPs, Aadhaar details, or personal information over the phone or SMS. - Avoid Sending SMS on Request:
Fraudulent requests to send an SMS are often aimed at transferring control of your SIM. - Enable SIM Lock:
Many smartphones offer a SIM lock feature that adds a layer of security to your SIM card.
What to Do If You Fall Victim
- Report to Your Telecom Provider:
Immediately inform your telecom provider to block your SIM and prevent misuse. - Inform Your Bank:
If your mobile number is linked to banking services, notify your bank to freeze suspicious transactions. - File a Complaint:
Report the incident to the cybercrime cell via the official website (cybercrime.gov.in in India) or by visiting your local police station. - Change Linked Account Passwords:
Update passwords for any accounts linked to your mobile number, including email and payment apps.
The “Your Number Will Be Barred” scam preys on fear and urgency. By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect yourself and others from becoming victims. Remember, telecom providers rarely make such abrupt demands, and official communication will usually come through verified channels.
Stay alert, spread awareness, and report scams to help curb this menace.
