Fake calls and SMS are common tricks used by scammers to steal your information or money. The Indian government has shared easy ways to identify and report these scams using the Sanchar Saathi portal and app. Here’s how you can stay safe.
How to Spot Fake Calls
- Check the Number: The government has introduced a special 160 number series for banking, insurance, and financial calls. If a call comes from a number that doesn’t start with 160, it might be fake.
- Be Cautious: Scammers may pretend to be from banks or government offices. Don’t trust calls asking for personal details like passwords or OTPs.
How to Spot Fake SMS
- Look for Codes: Genuine SMS from banks, telecom companies, or government services end with a code like -S, -G, or -P after the sender’s name. These codes mean:
- S: Messages about banking, transactions, or telecom services.
- G: Alerts or updates from government schemes.
- P: Promotional messages from companies approved by the telecom department.
- No Code? Be Alert: Messages without these codes could be fake. Scammers may send messages that look real but contain harmful links or ask for personal information.
- Avoid Clicking Links: Fake SMS may include links to virus-infected apps or websites that steal your data.
Why Scammers Send Fake Messages
Criminals send fake SMS or make calls to trick you into sharing personal details like bank account numbers or passwords. Clicking on their links can install viruses on your phone, allowing scammers to steal your information and commit fraud.
How to Report Fake Calls and SMS
- Use the Sanchar Saathi Portal: Go to www.sancharsaathi.gov.in and use the “Chakshu” section to report fake calls or SMS. Provide details like the phone number, message content, and date. Reported numbers may be blocked.
- Call the Cybercrime Helpline: Dial 1930 to report scams immediately.
- Forward Fake SMS: Send suspicious messages to 1909 or report them through your telecom provider’s app or website.
- Contact Your Bank: If you’ve shared bank details or lost money, inform your bank right away to secure your account. You can also report fraud on www.cybercrime.gov.in.
Tips to Stay Safe
- Use apps like Truecaller to identify unknown numbers.
- Block spam numbers on your phone.
- Turn on spam filters for calls and SMS.
- Keep checking government websites like Sanchar Saathi for updates on new scams.
Why Reporting Matters
Reporting fake calls and SMS helps the government catch scammers and protect others. By staying alert and reporting suspicious activity, you’re helping make India’s digital world safer.
Stay smart, verify before acting, and report scams to keep yourself and others safe!
