Government Issues Warning: Avoid Calls from These Numbers to Stay Safe from Scams

Despite strong government action and advanced telecom technologies, scammers are still finding clever ways to trick people through fake calls and messages. The latest warning urges citizens to stay cautious - especially when receiving calls from certain suspicious numbers that could be part of a scam.

TRAI’s Move to Curb Scam Calls and Messages

To stop fraud at the source, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) rolled out new rules last year. These help telecom providers detect and block suspicious calls and messages right at the network level. Airtel, for instance, has reported blocking millions of such calls every month, thanks to AI-driven tools.

Cybercriminals Now Turning to Internet-Based Calls

Scammers are now bypassing traditional networks by using Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) - internet-based calling services. These calls often appear to come from foreign numbers and are difficult to trace. Even worse, cybercriminals frequently hide their location using VPNs, making it harder to catch them.

Spot and Avoid Scam Numbers Like +697 and +698

Telecom regulators have flagged numbers starting with +697 or +698 as common scam call origins. If you receive a call from such numbers, do not answer - or hang up immediately if you do. These calls are typically linked to fraud or shady marketing campaigns.

If answered, never share your personal details. Scammers may pose as bank officials, police officers, or government agents. A smart move? Ask for a callback number and verify their identity independently. If they avoid giving it - consider it a red flag.

What to Do If You Get a Suspicious Call

• Don’t panic or respond impulsively.
• Never share OTPs, bank details, or ID numbers.
• Block the number and report it immediately.

Use the Chakshu Portal to Report Fraud

To empower citizens, the government has launched the Chakshu portal under the Sanchar Sathi platform. There’s also a Chakshu mobile app for easier access. Here’s how you can report:

1. Visit the Sanchar Sathi website.
2. Go to the Chakshu section.
3. Enter details about the suspicious number or message.
4. Submit the report to help others stay protected too.

Stay Alert, Stay Safe

While tech continues to advance, so do scammers. The key to staying safe lies in awareness. Be vigilant, trust your instincts, and report anything suspicious - because your caution today can prevent a scam tomorrow.