What Should Citizens Know About Cyber Scams Related to KYC Updates?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Beware of unknown callers claiming urgent KYC updates.
- Never share personal details over the phone.
- Visit your telecom provider's official store for verification.
- Report suspicious activities to the authorities immediately.
- TRAI is not responsible for SIM deactivation.
Jaipur, Nov 12 (NationPress) In an effort to combat the rising number of cybercrime incidents, Vijay Kumar Singh, the Additional Director General of Police (Cyber Crime) for Rajasthan, has released a vital advisory aimed at the public.
The advisory outlines how cybercriminals exploit individuals by pretending to require KYC (Know Your Customer) updates and offers critical safety recommendations to avert financial losses.
According to ADG Singh, fraudsters frequently contact people through unfamiliar mobile numbers, warning them that their SIM card KYC has lapsed or that their number is linked to illicit activities. They assert that the victim’s SIM services—including calls, messages, and OTPs—will be promptly disabled unless KYC is updated.
In a state of panic, numerous individuals disclose sensitive information like their name, address, PAN card, Aadhaar number, and bank account details, mistakenly believing they are performing a KYC update. These criminals then exploit this information to gain access to bank accounts and withdraw funds.
He also provided essential guidelines to protect oneself from cyber fraud, emphasizing that TRAI does not deactivate SIM cards.
“The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) does not deactivate mobile numbers. Only telecom service providers have the authority to do so. Should you receive a message regarding KYC, visit your telecom provider’s official store to verify. Never disclose your OTP, Aadhaar, PAN, or banking details to unknown callers or through unverified online links. Stay away from downloading apps from unknown sources, and refrain from installing applications or clicking on links suggested by unidentified callers or messages,” he stated.
In the event of receiving threatening or urgent calls or messages, he urged individuals to report them promptly via the Sanchar Saathi Chakshu Portal: https://sancharsaathi.gov.in/sfc/, advised Singh.
ADG Singh also recommended that victims of cyber fraud should report the incident immediately through the appropriate channels, he noted.