Your Number Will Be Blocked in 2 Hours Press 9: New Scam Alert! TRAI Issues Warning
Your Number Will Be Blocked in 2 Hours Press 9: New Scam Alert! TRAI Issues Warning
While technology has made life easier and more connected, it has also given rise to cybercrime. Scammers continue to devise new tactics to steal sensitive information, and a new scheme involving the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has emerged. Here’s what you need to know about this latest scam, how it operates, and the official warning issued by TRAI.
Beware of Fake TRAI Calls Claiming Your Number Will Be Blocked
In this scam, victims receive a call from what appears to be a regular mobile number. An automated voice informs them that their phone number will be blocked within two hours, urging them to press “9” for more information. The call is then transferred to someone posing as a TRAI official.
How the Scam Works
The official will explain to you how another number has been registered in your name and a complaint has been filed against that number for sending harassing messages. You will then be told that a clarification is required from the Police that you are not involved in illegal activities and only after a clarification letter from the police, your number will remain unblocked.
To sound authentic, you will also be given information like the FIR number, address of the shop from where the second sim has been bought and the name and position of the official speaking to you. Beware, the caller will try to transfer your call to the police.
TRAI Issues a Warning
TRAI has issued an official warning, confirming that they do not call individuals to block or discontinue phone numbers. This scam is being perpetrated in their name, and people should be cautious.
The warning states: “TRAI never sends messages or calls to verify or disconnect mobile numbers for illegal activities. Be wary of such messages or calls and treat them as potential fraud. Always verify with your mobile service provider’s customer care and report any suspicious activity to the Department of Telecommunications through the Chakshu module on the Sanchar Saathi platform (https://sancharsaathi.gov.in/sfc/) or to the Cyber Crime Portal of the Ministry of Home Affairs (https://www.cybercrime.gov.in).”
Stay alert and avoid falling prey to this scam!
