Fake WhatsApp Calls:
Note that if you receive a WhatsApp call from an unknown number claiming to be a government official from the Department of Telecommunications, it could be a scammer trying to steal your personal data.
The Department of Telecommunications (DOT) of the Ministry of Communications has issued an alert to Indian citizens about such WhatsApp calls. Responding to these WhatsApp calls, they claim to be government officials and ask for personal data, said the DOT. If personal details are not disclosed, mobile number will be deactivated and cases will be filed for involvement in illegal activities, she advised not to be afraid of such threats.
From Pakistan
Especially fake WhatsApp calls are found to be coming from Pakistan. India country code is +91. All our mobile numbers start with that code. Also, the country code of Pakistan is +92. The Department of Telecom warns that if any calls are received from numbers starting with this code, do not answer them. It is suggested to block and report those numbers if possible. It advised that ‘WhatsApp users should, in general, be wary of calls from unknown numbers and avoid receiving video calls from strangers.’
Cyber crimes
The Central Department of Telecom has said that before entertaining someone through WhatsApp, it is better to first verify the identity of the caller. “Cyber criminals try to steal personal information through such calls. No one is authorized to make such calls on behalf of the Department of Telecom. People should be alert. Do not accept such calls. In case of answering such calls, do not share your personal information,” explained the Department of Telecom. It is advised to immediately report suspicious calls to ‘Chakshu-Report Suspected Fraud Communications’ on ‘Sanchar Saathi Portal (www.sancharsaathi.gov.in)’. This will prevent cyber-crimes and financial frauds.
Sanchar Sathi Portal
Citizens can check the mobile connections in their name through the ‘Know Your Mobile Connections’ facility on the Sanchar Saathi Portal (www.sancharsaathi.gov.in). They can remove any mobile connection they don’t take or need. The Department of Telecom has advised citizens to report victims of cybercrime or financial fraud to the Cybercrime Helpline number 1930 or www.cybercrime.gov.in.