What's the *401 Call Forwarding Scam? How Does It Work and Ways to Stay Safe
In today's interconnected world, where smartphones are indispensable, scammers are constantly devising new methods to exploit unsuspecting individuals. One such scheme making rounds is the *401 Call Forwarding Scam , flagged recently by the Department of Telecom (DoT). Understanding the modus operandi of this scam and knowing preventive measures can safeguard you from falling prey to cyber fraudsters .
# Unveiling the Scam: How It Works
Scammers, adept at impersonation, often pose as mobile service providers or tech experts, preying on individuals through unsolicited calls. The trap is set when they persuade victims to dial *401# followed by a designated number. This seemingly innocent action activates call forwarding, stealthily rerouting all incoming calls, including vital ones like those from banks or OTP services, directly to the fraudster's device.
# Steering Clear: Tips to Avoid the Trap
1. Exercise Vigilance: Approach calls from unknown numbers, especially those claiming to represent service providers or tech support, with caution.
2. Question Unusual Requests: Legitimate companies seldom prompt customers to dial specific codes during calls. Be wary of such requests and refrain from complying without verification.
3. Verify Authenticity: When in doubt, disconnect the call and reach out to your service provider using their official contact details to verify the caller's legitimacy.
4. Guard Personal Information: Never disclose sensitive details like account information, passwords, or personal identification codes over the phone unless you're certain about the caller's identity.
5. Avoid Dialing Unknown Codes: Resist the temptation to dial codes provided by unfamiliar callers, particularly those involving call forwarding or other settings manipulation.
6. Refer to Official Instructions: Consult your service provider's official guidelines for managing call settings if you're unsure about any instructions received over the phone.
# Essential Reminders to Stay Protected
1. Regularly Monitor Call Settings: Periodically review your phone's call forwarding settings to ensure they haven't been tampered with without your knowledge.
2. Immediate Action: If you detect any suspicious call forwarding settings, disable them promptly to prevent unauthorized access to your incoming calls.
3. Stay Informed: Keep abreast of prevalent scams and their tactics through awareness initiatives and credible sources to shield yourself from potential threats.
4. Spread Awareness: Share insights about the *401 Call Forwarding Scam with your loved ones to collectively fortify your defenses against cyber fraudsters.
By adopting these precautions and staying informed, you can thwart attempts by scammers to exploit vulnerabilities and safeguard your digital well-being. Remember, vigilance is your strongest armour in the battle against cybercrime.