TRAI Alerts Public on Scam Calls Threatening Mobile Disconnection, Declares Calls Illegal

Highlights

• TRAI warns against fraudulent calls claiming mobile disconnection due to Aadhaar misuse.

• Fraudsters using Skype calls to deceive and extract personal information.

• Public advised not to entertain or respond to these illegal scam calls.

• TRAI has not authorized any disconnection calls or messages to telecom customers.

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has issued a warning about a new type of scam.

Fraudsters, posing as TRAI officials, are calling people and falsely claiming that their mobile numbers will be disconnected.

They are also falsely stating that the public’s Aadhaar numbers have been misused to obtain SIM cards for illegal activities.

The Trap of Skype Video Calls

Scammers are tricking individuals into joining Skype video calls.
TRAI clarifies that it has not authorized any agency or person to contact customers about mobile number disconnection.

The public is advised to be cautious and avoid these fraudulent calls and messages.

Participating in these Skype calls can be dangerous. Scammers aim to gain personal and financial information from unsuspecting individuals.

They may use various tactics like phishing links, malware downloads, or manipulation to obtain sensitive data or money.

Tactics Used by Scammers

• Phishing Links: Scammers might send a fake link during the call that leads to a website designed to steal personal information.

• Malware Threats: They might convince you to download malware, giving them access to your device and personal data.

• Pressure Tactics: Using fear or urgency, scammers may try to extract personal information or prompt financial actions that could harm you.

• Official Actions Against Unsolicited Communications

• Under the Telecom Commercial Communication Customer Preference Regulation (TCCCPR) 2018, service providers are responsible for taking action against numbers involved in sending unsolicited communications. If you receive such calls or messages, it’s best to ignore them and report a complaint.

TRAI’s Advisory to the Public

TRAI advises the public not to entertain any calls or messages claiming disconnection or blocking of their mobile numbers.

Such calls are illegal and a part of a growing trend of telecom frauds.

The public is encouraged to stay vigilant and protect their personal information from these fraudulent schemes.

FAQs

What is the nature of the scam calls that TRAI is warning about?

TRAI is warning about scam calls where fraudsters, posing as TRAI representatives, falsely claim that individuals’ mobile numbers are being disconnected due to Aadhaar number misuse and illegal activities.

How are scammers attempting to deceive individuals?

Scammers are trying to deceive individuals by urging them to join Skype video calls under the pretense of resolving issues related to mobile number disconnection, potentially to extract sensitive personal and financial information.

Has TRAI authorized any agencies to contact customers regarding mobile disconnection?

No, TRAI has not authorized any agency or individual to contact customers regarding the disconnection or blocking of mobile numbers. All such calls and messages are illegal and fraudulent.

What should individuals do if they receive such scam calls?

If individuals receive such calls, they are advised to not engage with the callers and to avoid sharing any personal information. They can also report the incident to the authorities.

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