Pune: Pimpri Chinchwad Police’s Cyber Cell Issues Alert On Call Forwarding Scam
Pune: Pimpri Chinchwad Police's Cyber Cell Issues Alert On Call Forwarding Scam
Pune, October 27, 2025: The Pimpri Chinchwad Police’s Cyber Cell has issued a warning about a rising scam involving the misuse of the call forwarding feature on mobile phones. Fraudsters are tricking users into activating call forwarding to their numbers, allowing them to intercept One-Time Passwords (OTPs) and gain access to banking or payment apps such as UPI, credit cards, or debit cards.
The information was issued by Dr Shivaji Pawar, deputy commissioner, (Crime), Pimpri Chinchwad police.
According to officials, victims are often asked to dial certain USSD codes starting with ‘*’ or ‘#’ to “verify” or “update” their mobile connection. When these codes are entered, all incoming calls are diverted to the fraudster’s number, enabling them to complete unauthorized financial transactions.
Key Points Mentioned in the Alert:
- Do not dial any USSD codes like 401, 21, or similar combinations unless verified by your mobile service provider.
- To check if call forwarding is active, dial
*#21#. - To deactivate all call forwarding, dial
##002#. - Always verify suspicious instructions with your telecom company or customer care.
- Report such incidents to the Cyber Crime Helpline by calling 1930 or visiting www.cybercrime.gov.in.
Warning on OTP Sharing:
The Cyber Cell reiterated that no genuine organization ever asks customers to share OTPs over calls or messages. Citizens are urged to stay alert and immediately report any unusual activities or suspicious instructions.
For more information, residents can contact the Pimpri Chinchwad Police Cyber Cell at [email protected] or call 020-27350939.
