How does fraud happen?

Once you connect to the fake network, scammers can send mass SMS blasts from your number, sending fake bank alerts, OTP requests and phishing links. Then by scaring you they make you click the link or fill the details. During this time the user does not even have a clue, because all this happens at the network level.

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How dangerous is this scam?

These scams like fraud messages, banking OTP theft from your number and unauthorized transactions, personal data leak, identity theft are not limited to India only. Even in countries like Greece, police have caught such fake tower gangs.

Why are telecom companies worried?

Mobile phones cannot differentiate between real and fake towers. Experts say that now a new network protocol is needed so that the phone connects only to the verified tower.

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How can users stay safe?

Stopping this is a big challenge for telecom companies because phones are programmed to choose the best signal. Until new protocols are in place, here’s what you should do:

• Network monitoring: If your phone suddenly switches from 5G to 2G or shows no service without any reason, then consider it as suspicious activity and be alert.




• distance from link: Do not click on any link received in any SMS, no matter how genuine it may seem.




• Verification: Confirm any message related to the bank only through the official app or by calling the customer care number.