Government Alert: Avoid Dialling ‘*401#’ with Unfamiliar Numbers to Prevent Malicious Calls

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued a consumer advisory to prevent cyber fraud involving malicious calls that ask users to dial *401# followed by an unknown mobile number. This action can activate unconditional call forwarding from the user’s mobile to the fraudster’s mobile, allowing them to receive all incoming calls and use them for fraudulent activities.

How the scam works

According to the DoT, the fraudsters pose as customer service representatives or technical support staff from the user’s telecom service provider. They claim that there is a problem with the user’s SIM card, network, or service quality and instruct them to dial a specific code to fix the issue. This code usually starts with *401# followed by a mobile number. Once the user dials the code, all their incoming calls are forwarded to the fraudster’s mobile number without their knowledge. The fraudsters can then use the incoming calls to impersonate the user, access their personal or financial information, or trick them into revealing sensitive details such as OTPs, passwords, or bank account numbers.

How to protect yourself

The DoT advises users to be cautious of receiving malicious incoming calls asking them to dial *401# followed by an unknown mobile number. Users should also check their mobile phone settings for call forwarding and disable it immediately if it has been enabled by dialing *401#. Telecom service providers never ask their subscribers to dial *401#, so users should be wary of any such requests. By following these precautions, users can protect themselves from falling victim to this scam and safeguard their personal information and financial assets. The DoT also urges users to report any such incidents to their telecom service provider or the nearest police station.

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