As the country's second largest telecom company, Airtel has given a fresh message to millions of users about online fraud. Recently the Department of Telecommunications has issued new guidelines to telecom companies to stop online fraud. This includes measures such as message identification. Avoid calls and messages from unknown numbers, Airtel said.
In a recent alert, Airtel advised users to refrain from any call, message or email requesting update or verification related to KYC, User ID, Password, Debit Card Number, PIN, CVV, or OTP. Reportedly, these could be attempts by cybercriminals to grab sensitive and personal information. This can even lead to empty bank accounts.
Numerous incidents have come to light in the last few months. Where hackers have been able to access personal information. Not just Airtel, institutions like Reserve Bank of India and SBI have also issued warnings about banking and UPI-related fraud. Criminals are ensnaring users with various tricks. The most notable among these is “Digital Arrest”.
How to be careful?
First, your best effort should be to guard against financial fraud. If you receive suspicious calls or messages, avoid them.
If you come across an SMS or email claiming that you have won a lottery or are eligible for a free gift, do not engage.
According to Reserve Bank of India, no legitimate bank or organization will ever ask for your OTP, PIN, or account details. Therefore, if you receive such a request, it is most likely from a cybercriminal.
