Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 28 January 2024
In a concerning trend, cybercriminals are employing text messages to deceive individuals into clicking on malicious links, leading to the installation of malware or the theft of personal and banking details. Recent observations reveal a surge in cyber fraudsters exploiting people under the guise of unpaid electricity bills through a smishing (SMS phishing) campaign.
The fraudulent scheme involves sending text messages to targeted phone numbers, warning recipients of an impending electricity disconnection due to an allegedly unpaid bill. The message prompts the recipient to contact a specified number, purportedly belonging to an electricity officer at 9898XXXXXX. Once in contact, the fraudster attempts to convince the victim to divulge their bank account details under the guise of verifying previous payments.
To enhance the credibility of the messages, spammers employ caller ID spoofing, making it appear as if the communication is from a trusted or local source. Furthermore, victims are coerced into installing remote access applications such as Anydesk, TeamViewer, etc. As victims unknowingly comply with the fraudster’s instructions, their bank accounts fall under the control of the criminals, enabling fraudulent transactions.
In response to this alarming trend, the Andaman and Nicobar Police have issued a comprehensive advisory to help individuals safeguard themselves against smishing attacks. The advisory includes the following key recommendations:
1. Exercise Caution with Personal Information: Avoid sharing your phone number unless familiar with the person or organisation.
2. Beware of Caller ID Spoofing: Be aware that spammers may use caller ID spoofing to make messages appear from trusted or local sources.
3. Download Software from Official Sources: Refrain from downloading software from unofficial sources, and remove non-essential applications.
4. Guard Against Providing Sensitive Information: Avoid providing personal or financial information in response to unsolicited texts or at websites linked to such messages.
5. Exercise Caution with Links: Avoid clicking on links in suspicious texts, as they may install malware on your device or lead to malicious sites.
The public is urged to report any such incidents on the cybercrime.gov.in portal and stay informed about safety tips by following @CyberDost on various social media platforms. Additionally, for assistance, information, or inquiries, individuals are encouraged to contact the Cyber Crime Police Station in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands through the Cyber Helpline No. 1930 or 9531856083 or visit cybercrime.gov.in. The police remain committed to addressing cyber threats and ensuring the safety of the public in the digital realm.