Beware of Fraudulent Calls Impersonating TRAI: Stay Safe!

[Rajath Bidappa]

Recently, there has been an increase in pre-recorded calls claiming to be from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). These calls may threaten that your mobile number will be blocked unless you provide personal information. Here’s the truth behind it and how you can protect yourself.

What’s Going On?
 

These calls are scams! TRAI has confirmed that it never contacts customers regarding mobile number disconnection through calls, messages, or notices. They have not authorized any third-party to do this either. If you receive such a call, it’s a clear sign that someone is trying to trick you.

How Does Number Disconnection Actually Work?

Only your mobile service provider (like Airtel, Jio, or Vodafone) can disconnect your number due to reasons like billing issues or incomplete KYC. TRAI has no direct role in contacting users for these matters.

How to Stay Safe:

1. Don’t Share Personal Info: Never give out your personal information to anyone claiming to be from TRAI.
Tip: You can search the caller’s number on Truecaller to verify if the call is genuine or marked as spam.

2. Verify: If you’re concerned, call your mobile service provider’s official customer care to double-check.
Tip: If the name displayed on Truecaller is incorrect or missing, you can suggest the correct name or report the number as spam for further review.

3. Stay Calm: Don’t panic when you receive these calls. Stay alert and think before responding.
Tip: If the number seems suspicious, you can mark it as spam on Truecaller to help others stay safe too.

Report Fraud:

If you think you’ve encountered fraud, report it! Use the Sanchar Saathi platform to report suspicious activity or contact the cyber crime helpline 1930 if you fall victim to a scam.

Stay safe, and remember always to double-check before you act!
 

Read more: TRAI cautions citizens regarding fraudulent calls impersonating it