The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has asked telecom service providers to block 392 mobile handsets misused in cybercrime and financial frauds related to electricity Know Your Customer (KYC) updates.
The move comes after citizens reported cases of fraudsters using SMS and WhatsApp messages related to electricity KYC updates and malicious APK files to manipulate and gain control over victims' devices.
DoT has also directed them to re-verify 31,740 mobile connections linked to these mobile handsets. The department also said that failure in re-verification will result in immediate disconnection and blocking of associated handsets.
These complaints were received on the 'Chakshu' platform, which allows citizens to report suspected fraudulent communication from mobile numbers via calls, SMS, or social media platforms like WhatsApp.
Integrated with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT)’s Sanchar Sathi portal, Chakshu will initiate the re-verification and potential blocking of suspected fraudulent numbers. The DoT has assured that usernames and details of the suspected numbers and those reporting will remain confidential and will not be shared with anyone.
Last month, the DoT directed telecom operators to block 28,200 mobile handsets across India that were misused in cybercrimes. Additionally, orders were issued for the immediate re-verification of 20 lakh mobile connections linked to these misused handsets.
The government's proactive measures using the Chakshu and Sanchar Sathi portals demonstrate a strong commitment to combating fraudulent communication and cybercrimes. By enabling citizens to report suspicious activities and ensuring swift action against fraudulent numbers and handsets, these initiatives enhance the security and trust of mobile communication networks.
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