Research & Opinion
Fraud Advisory: Stay Alert Against Fake IVR Calls Claiming to Be from TRAI
The Future Crime Research Foundation (FCRF) urges citizens to remain vigilant against a rising wave of fraudulent Interactive Voice Response (IVR) calls falsely claiming to be from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). These scams are designed to deceive unsuspecting individuals and compromise their sensitive information.
How the Scam Works:
Scammers use IVR systems to impersonate TRAI, asking for personal or financial details under the pretext of verifying telecom services or resolving complaints. The calls often originate from numbers not starting with the Indian country code (+91), making it critical to verify the legitimacy of such communications.
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Red Flags to Watch Out For:
1. Non-+91 Numbers: Be cautious of calls originating from international numbers or unknown sources.
2. Requests for Personal Information: Legitimate organizations like TRAI will never ask for personal details such as Aadhaar, bank account numbers, or OTPs over a call.
3. Urgency or Threats: Scammers often create a sense of urgency, threatening disconnection of services or penalties to compel victims to share information.
What You Should Do:
1. Do Not Respond: Avoid interacting with IVR calls from suspicious numbers. Disconnect immediately.
2. Verify Authenticity: If in doubt, contact your telecom operator or TRAI directly through their official channels.
3. Report Fraud: Notify cybercrime authorities via the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (www.cybercrime.gov.in).
Conclusion:
FCRF emphasizes the importance of staying informed and cautious. Educate family and friends about these scams to ensure their safety. Remember, vigilance is your best defense against cyber fraud. Stay alert and stay secure!
