Introduction
In the digital age, where technology has become an integral part of our lives, cybercriminals are constantly devising new and sophisticated tactics to exploit vulnerabilities. One such tactic that has recently gained traction is the use of international spoofed calls displaying Indian mobile numbers to target citizens for cybercrime and financial fraud. These deceptive calls, appearing to originate from within India, are actually made by cyber-criminals abroad who manipulate the calling line identity (CLI). This sophisticated tactic allows them to bypass initial suspicions, making it easier to ensnare unsuspecting victims.
Sanchar Saathi portal to block your lost phone | Photo Credit: ipopba
The Rise of Spoofed Call Scams
The prevalence of spoofed call scams has been alarming, with fraudsters employing various tactics to defraud individuals. These scams range from fake digital arrests, FedEx frauds, courier schemes involving drugs or narcotics, and impersonation of government and police officials. Additionally, fraudsters have threatened mobile disconnections, falsely claiming to be officials from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) or the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).
The Indian Government's Response
Recognizing the severity of the issue, the Department of Telecommunications and Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) have devised a system to identify and block incoming international spoofed calls from reaching any Indian telecom subscriber. The department has issued directions to the TSPs to block such incoming international spoofed calls, and the TSPs are already blocking calls with Indian landline numbers.
Citizen-Centric Sanchar Saathi Portal
In addition to the technical measures, the Indian government has launched a citizen-centric Sanchar Saathi portal to ensure users' safety and security amid fraud and international call threats. This portal provides a crucial tool called the "Chakshu" module, which enables citizens to report suspected fraudulent communications received via call, SMS, or WhatsApp.
The Chakshu Module
The Chakshu module is a powerful tool that empowers citizens to take action against fraudulent activities. Through this module, individuals can report suspicious calls, SMS, or WhatsApp messages intended to defraud them through various schemes such as KYC expiry, bank account updates, payment wallet updates, SIM issues, gas or electricity connection updates, sextortion, and impersonation as government officials or relatives demanding money. Fraudsters also use these tactics to threaten disconnection of mobile numbers purportedly by the Department of Telecommunications.
In cases where a citizen has already fallen victim to cyber-crime or financial fraud, it is advised to report the incident immediately to the cyber-crime helpline number 1930 or the Government of India's website cybercrime.gov.in.
Government orders telecom providers to block international spoofed calls - Source - India TV News
Additional Features of Sanchar Saathi
The Sanchar Saathi portal offers a range of features beyond the Chakshu module to enhance user security and convenience:
1. Mobile Connections Management: Citizens can check all mobile connections issued in their name and report unwanted or unauthorized connections for disconnection.
2. Lost or Stolen Mobile Handset: Users can report stolen or lost mobile handsets for blocking and tracing.
3. Verify Mobile Handset: The portal allows users to check the genuineness of mobile handsets when buying new or old devices.
4. Report Spoofed International Calls: Citizens can report incoming international calls that display Indian telephone numbers as the calling line identification.
5. Licensed ISP Details: Users can check details of licensed wireline Internet Service Providers.
The Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) Module
Sanchar Saathi also features the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) module, which allows users to block the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) of lost devices and receive a request ID to monitor the status and unblock the IMEI in the future. This service is available nationwide, providing a crucial tool in combating mobile phone theft and misuse.
TAFCOP and ASTR Solutions
The portal's TAFCOP module enables users to check the number of mobile connections issued in their name, with a maximum of nine connections from all Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) in India, except for subscribers in Jammu & Kashmir and the North Eastern states, who are restricted to six connections. Another significant reform under Sanchar Saathi is the ASTR solution, which uses artificial intelligence and facial recognition to enhance telecom SIM subscriber verification, ensuring greater security and reducing the risk of identity fraud.
Conclusion
The Indian government's proactive measures to combat international spoofed calls and cyber-fraud demonstrate its commitment to creating a secure digital ecosystem for its citizens. By leveraging technology and empowering individuals through platforms like Sanchar Saathi, India is taking significant strides towards curbing cybercrime and financial fraud. However, it is crucial for citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspected fraudulent activities through the available channels. Together, through collaborative efforts between the government, telecom service providers, and citizens, India can effectively counter the growing threat of cybercrime and ensure a safer digital environment for all.
Comments