Are you getting calls from unknown international numbers these days? So don't answer, government warned

pc: news18

Amid the worrying rise in cyber crime, fraudulent international calls have become a major threat to mobile users across the country. In a recent official statement, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) highlighted the alarming rise in such scams, identifying over 1.35 crore fraudulent calls within just 24 hours of the government implementing new preventive measures Went.

As digital scams continue to evolve, fraudsters are increasingly using international phone numbers to defraud unsuspecting victims, often pretending to be representatives of government agencies or other trusted institutions. In response, the Center issued a strict warning to all telecom customers to exercise caution when receiving calls from unknown international numbers, especially those numbers that do not start with the country code +91.

The government's intervention follows the launch of the 'International Incoming Fake Call Prevention System' on October 22. Within the first 24 hours, the system successfully identified nearly 90% of international calls from compromised numbers as fraudulent. Subsequently, telecom service providers (TSPs) were directed to block such calls for the safety of users.

However, the fraudsters quickly changed their tactics, using real international numbers to circumvent detection. This led the Department of Telecommunications to issue specific guidelines advising citizens not to respond to calls from unfamiliar international numbers, especially those claiming to represent government departments or officials.

Apart from the growing threat of international call scams, the government also issued an alert about a new type of digital scam, known as 'digital arrest'. In this scam, cyber criminals make video calls, impersonate government officials like police or CBI officials, and falsely accuse the victims of serious crimes. They demand immediate payment, threatening legal consequences if the money is not given.

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) had earlier issued a warning about this type of fraud, emphasizing that legitimate investigation agencies never demand money or harass through phone or video calls. Are not included in. The officials made it clear that any such interaction is a scam and should be reported immediately.

As fraudsters continue to exploit digital platforms to their advantage, users are urged to remain vigilant. It is important to remember that no legitimate government agency will ask for personal or financial information in this manner. Always verify the identity of the caller before answering and do not speak to them if in doubt.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from news18.