Port Blair, Apr 18: In recent times, there has been a concerning surge in fraudulent activities targeting individuals through calls over WhatsApp and other sources. Fraudsters, posing as representatives of law enforcement agencies such as CID, CBI, or similar bodies, are resorting to deceitful tactics to extort money from unsuspecting victims.
These fraudulent callers are falsely informing individuals that their son or daughter has been implicated in serious legal matters, such as rape cases/abetment to suicide cases/involving in Drugs and Narcotics cases etc. Exploiting the emotional vulnerability of parents, they demand gratification for the release of their children. Additionally, instances of college students being kidnapped and ransom demands made have also been reported.
The fraudulent calls often originate from numbers with the country code +92. General public are strongly advised not to respond to such calls and to exercise caution, especially when receiving international WhatsApp calls from unknown numbers.
In order to tackle this threat and safeguard citizens from becoming victims of such schemes, the A&N Police encourages individuals to take proactive steps:
- Remain vigilant and cautious when receiving unsolicited calls or messages, especially from unknown international numbers via WhatsApp.
- Refrain from engaging with individuals claiming to be from law enforcement agencies who ask for money or personal information over phone.
- Utilize the ‘Chakshu-Report Suspected Fraud Communications’ facility available on the Sanchar Saathi portal (www.sancharsaathi.gov.in) to report fraudulent activities.
- Regularly check and verify mobile connections associated with your name using the ‘Know Your Mobile Connections’ feature on the Sanchar Saathi portal (www.sancharsaathi.gov.in). Report any unauthorized connections immediately.
- Go to WhatsApp settings Privacy calls Silence unknown callers.
- Talk to your children/other relative/friend, directly on his/her mobile numbers, who is reportedly under distress, in order to verify.
The Andaman & Nicobar Police urges citizens to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding themselves and their loved ones against such fraudulent activities. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, together, we can combat cyber-crime and ensure the safety and security of our communities.
For assistance, information or enquiries, please contact: Cyber Crime Police Station, A&N Islands, over National Helpline No. 1930 and A&N Police Helpline No. 9531856083 or visit cybercrime.gov.in.