Cyber Crime
Cracking Down on Cybercrime: DoT Blocks 1,500 Illicit Callers
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has launched a major offensive against cybercrime, successfully blocking over 1,500 rogue callers involved in phishing, financial scams, and other illicit activities. This decisive action aims to protect citizens from the rising tide of cyber threats and strengthen the security of India’s telecommunications infrastructure.
Modus Operandi Exposed: These rogue callers operated through a intricate web of local and international networks, targeting unsuspecting individuals with fraudulent schemes. Their tactics ranged from phishing attempts designed to steal personal information to elaborate financial scams aimed at draining bank accounts. Notably, the blocked callers include individuals like designated terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who made threats against critical national infrastructure like the BSE, NSE, Air India, and the Indian Parliament.
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Proactive Measures for Enhanced Security: Recognizing the severity of the situation, the DoT has taken proactive steps to disrupt these illegal operations. By identifying and blocking the phone numbers used by these rogue callers, including those linked to overseas networks, the department has effectively cut off their access to potential victims. This crackdown is part of a larger initiative to bolster cybersecurity protocols within the telecom sector, creating a safer digital environment for all users.
Department of Telecommunications (DoT) advises citizens regarding malicious calls from international numbers aimed at creating panic
Asked citizens to report such calls to DoT or telecom service providers
Read here: https://t.co/a4VmCh4QJc pic.twitter.com/IbAYXXxtRr
— PIB India (@PIB_India) January 4, 2024
Collaboration is Key: The department has emphasized the importance of public vigilance in this ongoing fight against cybercrime. Citizens are urged to report any suspicious calls or activities to the relevant authorities, such as DoT’s helpline email address help-sancharsaathi@gov.in or their telecom service providers. This collaborative effort between the public and government agencies is essential for maintaining the integrity of telecommunications networks and safeguarding against cyber threats.
Public Advisory👇
Beware of malicious calls from international numbers claiming to cause disruption !Report such Numbers to Your Telecom Service Providers !!
#StaySafe #StayVigilant @AshwiniVaishnaw @devusinh @neerajmittalias @Cyberdost@PIB_India pic.twitter.com/azcPsmGHnv
— DoT India (@DoT_India) January 4, 2024
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Curbing Malicious Apps and SIM Card Frauds: To further strengthen its grip on cybercrime, the DoT has also taken stern action against apps facilitating illegal activities. Last week, Google, Apple, telecom operators, and internet service providers were directed to block two eSIM apps – Airalo and Holafly – that were found to be misused by fraudsters. Additionally, the government has implemented mandatory verification of SIM card dealers, discontinued bulk connections, and enforced registration requirements for franchisees, point-of-sale agents, and distributors to combat cyber crimes perpetrated through telecom channels.
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Continued Vigilance: The DoT remains committed to tackling cybercrime head-on. By leveraging advanced technology, fostering close cooperation with other stakeholders, and adopting a proactive approach to blocking suspicious activities, the department is working tirelessly to neutralize cyber threats and ensure a secure digital space for all Indians. This ongoing crackdown on rogue callers, including those posing national security threats, serves as a testament to the department’s dedication to protecting citizens and strengthening the nation’s cybersecurity posture.
Key Points:
- Over 1,500 rogue callers, including international numbers and designated terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, blocked by DoT.
- Callers targeted individuals with phishing scams, financial frauds, and threats against national infrastructure.
- DoT adopts proactive approach, blocking suspicious numbers without waiting for approvals.
- Public vigilance and reporting crucial in combating cybercrime.
- Government cracks down on malicious eSIM apps and enforces stricter SIM card regulations.
- DoT committed to protecting citizens and ensuring a secure digital environment.