DoT issues advisory against fraudulent WhatsApp calls from foreign numbers

Srinagar, Mar 29: The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued an advisory urging citizens to be wary of fraudulent WhatsApp calls from foreign numbers, emphasising that the government does not authorise anyone to make such calls on its behalf.

The advisory comes in response to a rise in fraud calls and cybercrimes where callers impersonate government officials and threaten citizens with mobile number disconnection or involvement in illegal activities. The callers then request individuals to complete KYC (Know Your Customer) processes, aiming to obtain sensitive information.

“Cybercriminals through such calls try to threaten/steal personal information to carry out cyber-crime/financial frauds,” the advisory stated, highlighting the importance of vigilance and not sharing any information upon receiving such calls.

The DoT has advised citizens to report such fraudulent communications through the “Chakshu-Report Suspected Fraud Communications” facility on the Sanchar Saathi portal (www.sancharsaathi.gov.in). Proactive reporting helps in the prevention of telecom resource misuse for cybercrimes and financial frauds.

Additionally, citizens are encouraged to check their mobile connections through the “Know Your Mobile Connections” facility on the Sanchar Saathi portal and report any unauthorised or unnecessary mobile connections.

In case of falling victim to cybercrimes or financial frauds, citizens are advised to report the incidents to the cyber-crime helpline number 1930 or www.cybercrime.gov.in. The DoT’s advisory serves as a reminder for citizens to remain vigilant against fraudulent activities and to take necessary precautions to protect their personal information and financial assets.