Cyber Fraud Victimizes Noida Woman of Rs 27 Lakh During eSIM Activation
A shocking incident of cyber fraud has recently come to light, where a 44-year-old woman from Noida, Uttar Pradesh, was deceived out of Rs 27 lakh during what she believed was a legitimate eSIM activation process. The victim, an employee at a private company, reported the crime to the police, detailing how she fell prey to a well-orchestrated scam.
The Scam Unfolds
According to her complaint, the woman received a WhatsApp call from someone posing as a customer service representative of a telecom company. The caller informed her about the benefits of activating an eSIM, which piqued her interest. Trusting the caller’s persona, she began to follow the instructions provided to her.
During the conversation, the woman was prompted to share a verification code she received on her phone. Shortly after this, her original phone number was deactivated without her knowledge. The following day, she noticed that she hadn’t received an eSIM and, concerned about the situation, contacted the telecom company’s customer service, only to be advised to visit the nearest store for a new SIM card.
Unfortunately, after activating the new SIM, she was bombarded with messages indicating that Rs 27 lakh had been withdrawn from her bank account, marking the culmination of the fraudulent activity.
Legal Action Taken
Upon realizing she had been scammed, the woman lodged a complaint with the police on August 31, 2024. Authorities have registered a case under relevant sections of the IT Act aimed at addressing cybercrime, highlighting the growing prevalence of such frauds in today’s digital age.
Understanding SIM Swap Fraud
What the woman experienced is commonly known as SIM Swap Fraud. This type of scam allows cybercriminals to access personal information and bank accounts by concocting details to obtain a duplicate SIM card linked to a victim’s mobile number.
Protecting Yourself from SIM Swap Fraud
In light of this incident, it is crucial for the public to stay vigilant and informed about potential scams. Below are some precautionary measures to help protect yourself:
- Be wary of any suspicious messages regarding eSIM or mobile services. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
- Never divulge your One-Time Password (OTP) or passwords during unsolicited phone calls or messages.
- Understand that cybercriminals can deactivate your current SIM and issue a new one using the details you provide.
- If you receive any suspicious messages or calls, report them to appropriate government channels.
Conclusion
Cyber fraud is a growing concern, especially with the increasing adoption of digital services. By staying informed and cautious, individuals can protect themselves from becoming victims of such scams. Always exercise skepticism when it comes to unsolicited communications, and prioritize your personal security in the digital realm.
