New Delhi: In the digital age, while smartphones have made life more convenient, the growing menace of spam calls has significantly increased user distress. According to a recent global report, India has emerged as the fifth most affected country in the world in terms of unwanted or spam calls. The data highlights not only the scale of the issue but also the rising digital risks faced by users across the country.
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The report states that in 2025 alone, more than 68 billion spam and fraud-related calls were identified globally. India accounts for a substantial share, with nearly 66 percent of users reporting exposure to such calls. This indicates that spam calls are no longer a minor inconvenience but a serious and widespread concern for mobile users.
Countries most affected
Indonesia tops the list as the most spam-affected nation, followed by Chile, Vietnam, and Brazil. India ranks fifth, underlining that the issue is not confined to a specific region but is rapidly becoming a global phenomenon.
Experts believe that increased digital adoption, rapid expansion of online services, and frequent data leaks are key factors contributing to the rise of spam calls. In a country like India, with a massive mobile user base, the scale of the threat becomes even more significant.
According to the report, the largest share of spam calls in India comes from commercial advertisements and telemarketing, accounting for about 36 percent of the total. These typically include promotions related to insurance, loans, credit cards, and other services.
Additionally, around 18 percent of calls are linked to financial services, such as banking offers, investment schemes, and loan-related pitches. Nearly 12 percent fall directly under fraud, where the intent is to deceive users and extract money or sensitive information.
How spam callers operate
Spam callers often rely on auto-dialing systems and large databases of phone numbers. In many cases, user data is either leaked or illegally purchased and then used to target individuals. Fraudulent callers frequently impersonate bank officials, government representatives, or company agents to gain trust and extract confidential details.
Recently, scams using tactics like “digital arrest,” “KYC update,” and “loan approval” have seen a sharp rise. These calls are designed to sound convincing, making it easier for unsuspecting users to fall into the trap.
How to stay protected
Cybersecurity experts warn that spam calls have evolved beyond mere nuisance and now pose a serious financial threat. Prof. Triveni Singh, a renowned cybercrime expert and former IPS officer, said, “Spam calls today are not limited to marketing; they are increasingly being used as tools for large-scale financial fraud. Cybercriminals use social engineering techniques to create psychological pressure and manipulate victims into sharing sensitive information.” He added that fraudsters often invoke fear by posing as law enforcement or banking authorities, forcing individuals to act quickly without verifying the authenticity of the call.
To avoid falling victim to spam calls, users must adopt basic precautions. Always be cautious when answering calls from unknown numbers and avoid sharing personal details. Use call-blocking features available on smartphones and report suspicious numbers promptly.It is also important to avoid sharing your phone number on untrusted websites or applications. If a call seems suspicious, reporting it can help prevent others from becoming victims.
