Himachal Police alert public over fake TRAI calls

The police have cautioned people against cyber fraudsters who impersonate officials of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) and telecom service providers to extort money and steal sensitive personal information. According to the police, several such cases are being reported across the state. In the scam, fraudsters contact victims over phone calls and falsely claim to be officials of TRAI or a telecom company.

The callers then inform the victim that a complaint has been received alleging that their mobile phone number was being used for fraudulent activities or unsolicited messaging. The claims are designed to create panic and confusion. The police say that the scammers often threaten to block or deactivate the victim’s mobile phone number and then pressure him to share personal and financial details. In some cases, victims are asked to join video calls on the pretext of a so-called “digital arrest” process.

The fraudsters also threaten the victim of legal action, claiming that an FIR will be registered unless he cooperates. They then demand money so that the victim could avoid legal proceedings, ultimately duping him of his savings.

The police say that neither TRAI nor any telecom company contacts customers in such a manner or asks them to share confidential information over phone calls or video calls. The police urge people not to panic if they receive such calls and refrain from sharing bank account details, OTPs, passwords, Aadhaar card information or any other personal data with unknown persons.

Officials say that cybercriminals exploit fear, intimidation and the lack of awareness to manipulate victims into disclosing sensitive information. People have been advised to immediately disconnect suspicious calls and verify any claims directly with their telecom service provider through official channels.

The police also appealed to citizens to report cybercrime incidents without delay by calling the National Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930. They highlighted the importance of prompt reporting and said that the first few hours after a cyber fraud, often referred to as the “golden hour”, are crucial for tracing transactions, freezing funds and increasing the chances of recovering the lost money and apprehending the accused.

Officials urge the public to remain vigilant and spread awareness among family members, particularly senior citizens, who are often the target of such scams.

When the call wears a badge

A chilling new cyber scam is sweeping across the state, with fraudsters masquerading as TRAI and telecom officials to prey on fear and confusion

Victims receive alarming calls claiming their mobile numbers are linked to illegal activities and face imminent deactivation or legal action

Under threats of FIRs, “digital arrests” and service suspension, unsuspecting individuals are coerced into sharing sensitive information or transferring money

Police stress that genuine authorities never seek confidential details over calls or video chats. Citizens are urged to stay alert, verify claims through official channels, and report suspicious activity immediately