As you may already know, phone call scams are on the rise these days. Fraudsters are using clever tricks to gain your trust and steal money from your bank account within minutes.
Evolving Scam Techniques – Even a Single Call Can Be Dangerous
In recent times, many people have received fake calls claiming unpaid electricity bills, blocked ATM cards, or urgent bank updates. Unfortunately, several individuals have fallen into these traps and lost their hard-earned savings.
That’s why awareness is your best defense.
Think You’re Safe Because You Don’t Share OTPs or Click Suspicious Links?
If yes, then think again! Scammers have now taken it a step further — introducing a more dangerous trick that doesn’t require OTPs or links.
🚨 The New Scam: Call Forwarding Fraud
In this scam, your phone calls get silently forwarded to the scammer’s number—just by making one dialed call.
Here’s How It Works:
1. You receive a call claiming to be from a courier company, saying your parcel couldn’t be delivered.
2.The conversation sounds professional, and you may even receive a WhatsApp message with an official-looking logo.
3. They ask you to dial a verification code to connect with a delivery agent.
4. Trusting the process, you dial the code.
And just like that, your phone’s call forwarding gets activated to the scammer’s number.
Now, any call from your bank or OTPs will be redirected to the scammer — and you won’t even know it.
🔐 What Can You Do to Stay Safe?
Here are a few essential tips to protect yourself:
. Be cautious if you get a call about a failed delivery asking you to dial a code.
. If asked to dial any code starting with * or #, check if call forwarding is enabled by dialing: *#21#
. To disable call forwarding immediately, dial: ##002#
. If you’ve been scammed, report it instantly to the cybercrime helpline at 1930.
📢 Spread the Word – Keep Your Family and Friends Safe
In today’s digital age, information is the best defense. Share this post with your loved ones and help protect them from falling victim to this new scam.