TRAI Issues Alert Over Rise in Fraudulent Calls Impersonating Telecom Regulator

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has issued a crucial public advisory regarding a rise in fraudulent calls targeting mobile phone users. Scammers are impersonating TRAI officials and threatening users with mobile number disconnection to extort personal information.

Beware of Fake TRAI Calls! Telecom Regulator Warns of Phishing Attempts

Phishing Calls Threaten Number Disconnection

TRAI has clarified that it does not directly contact customers about mobile number disconnections through messages, calls, or any other means. These fraudulent calls often feature pre-recorded messages falsely claiming that the recipient's mobile number is at risk of being blocked. The scammers then attempt to pressure the user into revealing personal information under this guise.

Here's what the TRAI advisory states:

• Scam calls impersonate TRAI officials.

• Pre-recorded messages threaten mobile number disconnection.

• Scammers attempt to extract personal information.

TRAI Reiterates Communication Channels

Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has emphasized that it does not initiate communication regarding mobile number disconnections. Any such communication claiming to be from TRAI should be considered a potential scam and ignored.

Here are the key points to remember:

• TRAI does not contact users about mobile number disconnection.

• Treat calls claiming to be from TRAI as potential scams.

• Ignore such calls and do not share personal information.

Responsibility for Disconnection Lies with Telecom Operators

TRAI has clarified that the responsibility for mobile number disconnection due to billing issues, KYC non-compliance, or misuse rests solely with the respective Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) like Airtel, Jio, and Vodafone Idea.

Here's the takeaway:

• TSPs are responsible for mobile number disconnection, not TRAI.

• Billing issues, KYC, and misuse can lead to disconnection by TSPs.

How to Stay Safe

TRAI urges citizens to remain vigilant and avoid falling victim to these scams. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself:

• Do not share personal information over suspicious calls.

• Verify suspicious calls with authorized customer service centers of your TSP.

• Report suspected fraudulent communications through Chakshu on Sanchar Saathi (https://sancharsaathi.gov.in/sfc/).

• Report confirmed cybercrime incidents via cybercrime helpline number 1930 or
  https://cybercrime.gov.in/.

Conclusion

In an era where digital communication is integral to daily life, safeguarding personal information from fraudulent activities is more important than ever. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has taken significant steps to alert the public about the rising threat of scammers impersonating the telecom regulator. By staying vigilant and following TRAI’s guidelines, citizens can protect themselves from falling victim to these scams. Remember, any communication claiming to be from TRAI about mobile number disconnections is fraudulent and should be treated with caution. Utilize official channels for verification and reporting, and contribute to the collective effort to combat cybercrime.