Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 18 April 2024
In recent developments, a wave of fraudulent activities targeting individuals via WhatsApp and other communication platforms has emerged, prompting authorities to issue a public warning. Fraudsters, masquerading as representatives of esteemed law enforcement agencies such as the CID, CBI, or similar bodies, have resorted to cunning tactics to exploit unsuspecting victims for financial gain.
These deceitful callers prey on the emotional vulnerability of their targets, often informing them falsely that their family members, particularly their children, are embroiled in serious legal matters such as rape, abetment to suicide, or involvement in narcotics cases. Leveraging the distress of parents, they demand hefty sums of money in exchange for the release of their purportedly implicated loved ones. Additionally, disturbing reports have surfaced where parents have been falsely informed of their college going child being kidnapped, with ransom demands following suit.
The origin of these fraudulent calls frequently traces back to numbers bearing the country code +92. As a precautionary measure, the general public is strongly advised against entertaining such calls and exercising utmost vigilance, especially when receiving international calls from unfamiliar numbers via WhatsApp.
To counter this escalating threat and shield citizens from falling victim to such nefarious schemes, the Andaman & Nicobar Police implores individuals to adopt proactive measures:
- Exercise vigilance and discretion when receiving unsolicited communications, particularly from unknown international numbers via WhatsApp.
- Refrain from engaging with individuals purporting to represent law enforcement agencies who solicit money or personal information over the phone.
- Utilize the ‘Chakshu-Report Suspected Fraud Communications’ feature accessible on the Sanchar Saathi portal (www.sancharsaathi.gov.in) to report instances of fraudulent activities.
- Regularly monitor and verify mobile connections associated with your name using the ‘Know Your Mobile Connections’ tool on the Sanchar Saathi portal (www.sancharsaathi.gov.in), promptly reporting any unauthorised connections.
- Enable the ‘Silence Unknown Callers’ feature in WhatsApp settings under Privacy > Calls.
- Verify the well-being of any family members purportedly under distress by contacting them directly on their mobile numbers.
The Andaman & Nicobar Police emphasises the importance of remaining vigilant and proactive in safeguarding oneself and loved ones against the perils of such fraudulent activities. By staying informed and taking requisite precautions, collective efforts can effectively combat cyber-crime, ensuring the safety and security of communities at large.
For assistance, information, or inquiries, individuals are encouraged to reach out to the Cyber Crime Police Station, A&N Islands, via the National Helpline No. 1930 or the A&N Police Helpline No. 9531856083, or visit cybercrime.gov.in.