Government Warns Against SIM Card Block Frauds and Rising SIM Swap Scams Across India
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued a stern warning against a surge in SIM card frauds and SIM swap scams across India, urging citizens to remain vigilant. Cybercriminals are impersonating telecom officials and deceiving users into sharing personal information under the pretext of KYC updates or impending SIM deactivation.
How the SIM Swap Fraud Works
Fraudsters call or message victims, posing as telecom company representatives or TRAI officials, claiming their SIM cards will be blocked due to “technical errors.” They then trick users into revealing sensitive details or clicking malicious links.
Once scammers obtain personal data, they activate a new SIM linked to the victim’s mobile number. Since OTPs (One-Time Passwords) for banking and social media logins are sent to this new SIM, criminals gain unauthorized access to bank accounts, social media profiles, and other sensitive platforms.
New Security Measures by DoT
To combat these scams, the government has introduced stricter SIM card regulations:
- Biometric verification is now mandatory for new SIM activations.
- 24-hour SMS lock prevents incoming messages on newly activated SIMs for a day.
Despite these measures, citizens must stay cautious and follow preventive steps.
Beware of SIM Swap Fraud!
— DoT India (@DoT_India) June 28, 2025
Check numbers linked to your name & report suspicious ones, both on https://t.co/6oGJ6NTnZT pic.twitter.com/wXezCJ3IBY
How to Protect Yourself from SIM Swap Fraud
- Ignore unknown calls/messages claiming SIM deactivation or KYC updates.
- Never click on suspicious links sent via SMS or email.
- Report fraud attempts on DoT’s official portal: www.sancharsaathi.gov.in or helpline 1930.
- Limit sharing personal details on social media.
- Enable fraud alert settings on your mobile.
FAQs on SIM Swap Scams
1. What is SIM swap fraud?
A scam where fraudsters activate a new SIM linked to your number to intercept OTPs and hack accounts.
2. How to identify fake calls?
Legitimate companies never ask for KYC updates via call/SMS.
3. What to do if you receive a suspicious call/message?
Report it immediately at www.sancharsaathi.gov.in or call 1930.
4. What security steps has the government taken?
Biometric verification for new SIMs and a 24-hour SMS lock to prevent misuse.
Stay alert—one wrong click can compromise your bank account, social media, and personal data!
