SIM Box Scam: Clicking on an unknown message can empty your bank account; this is how this fraud works; learn how to stay safe..

Cyber ​​fraud cases are rapidly increasing in India, and fraudsters are constantly adopting new methods to target people. One such new and dangerous method that has emerged is the SIM box scam. This scam is silently siphoning off people's hard-earned money. This scam has recently come back into the spotlight after a major operation by the CBI.

What is a SIM Box Scam?
In a SIM box scam, fraudsters use a special device called a SIM box. This device can operate thousands of SIM cards simultaneously. The fraudsters use these SIM cards to send fake calls and millions of SMS messages containing phishing links, fake loan offers, and fraudulent investment schemes. This technology allows them to disguise international calls as local calls, thus avoiding telecom charges and regulations.

How does the SIM Box Scam work?
According to a TOI report, the scam begins with purchasing SIM cards using fake identities. Fraudsters obtain thousands of SIM cards using forged documents. These SIM cards are then inserted into the SIM box device, and millions of fraudulent SMS messages and calls are sent daily. Many people, tempted by the offers, click on the dangerous links provided in the messages, leading to the theft of their data or money.

Recently, the CBI conducted a major operation against a SIM box network in Noida, Delhi, and Chandigarh. So far, more than 21,000 illegal SIM cards have been seized. The investigation revealed that foreign cybercriminals were also using this network to defraud Indian citizens. This scam can cause various types of harm to people, including financial losses such as their bank accounts being emptied, theft of personal data, fraudulent loans or transactions, or even hacking of social media and email accounts.

How to protect yourself:
Do not click on any links in unknown SMS messages or texts. Be wary of messages offering loans, prizes, or investment opportunities, and carefully check the sender's number. Also, do not trust messages from strange or random numbers. Do not share your personal information, OTP, or bank details with anyone, and report suspicious messages to your telecom operator or the cybercrime portal.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Amar Ujala. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.