Rajasthan Police Issues Warning: Lending Phones Can Lead to Cyber Fraud
Synopsis
In a troubling advisory, Rajasthan police caution citizens against lending their phones to strangers, highlighting the rise of sophisticated cyber fraud tactics that can compromise personal data and finances.
Key Takeaways
Never lend your unlocked phone to strangers.
Be cautious when approached for phone usage in public places.
Check for call forwarding immediately if you do lend your phone.
Secure all payment applications with strong, unique PINs or biometric locks.
Report any suspicious activity to the authorities immediately.
Jaipur, April 3 (NationPress) A seemingly innocent gesture, such as lending your mobile device to a stranger in need of making an urgent call, has become a potential gateway to serious cyber fraud, according to warnings from the Rajasthan police.
Following the guidance of Director General of Police (DGP) Rajiv Kumar Sharma, the Cyber Crime Branch of the Rajasthan Police has released a public advisory alerting citizens to the latest strategies employed by cybercriminals targeting unsuspecting individuals.
DIG (Cyber Crime) Shantanu Kumar Singh elaborated that at locations like bus stands, railway stations, parks, and tourist attractions, scammers approach individuals claiming they urgently need to make a phone call.
Once the phone is handed over, they swiftly execute their malicious plans, which can lead to the draining of bank accounts or the theft of personal information.
The most concerning method, according to police, is known as the 'Call Forwarding Scam. Scammers use a specific code from the victim’s phone to reroute all One-Time Passwords (OTPs) to their own device. With control over these OTPs, they can effortlessly gain access to bank accounts, WhatsApp, and social media accounts.
In other scenarios, perpetrators may install spyware or keyloggers to monitor all activities, including passwords, banking information, and private communications, continuously sending this data back to them.
They can even pilfer contact lists and exploit victims' relatives by fabricating emergencies.
Moreover, if a criminal misuses your number for illegal calls, it could emerge during investigations, potentially involving you in legal issues.
The Rajasthan police have advised that while helping others is commendable, it should be done cautiously. "Keep your phone in your possession, dial the number yourself, and allow them to speak on speaker mode. Never hand over your unlocked phone to someone you don’t know. If you accidentally do so, promptly dial *#21# to verify any call forwarding, use ##002# to deactivate it, and ensure that each payment/UPI application is secured with its own PIN or biometric lock.
Point of View
I emphasize the importance of being vigilant in today's digital age. The rise in cyber fraud tactics requires our proactive response. While kindness is commendable, we must prioritize our safety and security.
NationPress
16 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I lent my phone to a stranger?
Immediately check for call forwarding by dialing *#21# and disable it with ##002#. Ensure all payment apps are secure.
How can I protect my personal information?
Use strong, unique passwords, enable biometric locks, and avoid sharing your phone with strangers.
What is the 'Call Forwarding Scam'?
It's a tactic where fraudsters redirect your One-Time Passwords (OTPs) to their own number, allowing access to your accounts.
Are there risks beyond financial loss?
Yes, sharing your phone could lead to legal issues if your number is misused for illegal activities.
What locations are most at risk for these scams?
Common places include bus stands, railway stations, parks, and tourist sites where scammers frequently operate.
