A resident of Noida, Jyotsana Bhatia, recently lost ₹27 lakh in a SIM card fraud, as reported by Hindustan Times. The scam, which involved a fake telecom executive, began with a WhatsApp call about activating an eSIM feature for her mobile phone. The scammer convinced Bhatia to share a code sent to her via SMS, which led to her mobile number being deactivated, allowing the scammer to access her bank accounts.
What Went Wrong?
The fraudster posed as a customer care executive and used the pretext of activating a new eSIM to deceive the victim. Bhatia was promised a physical SIM card within 2-3 days, but after the SIM deactivation, she didn’t receive the replacement. Upon visiting the telecom service center, she discovered multiple unauthorized transactions from her bank accounts. The fraudster had:
- Broken her fixed deposit
- Siphoned off money from two bank accounts
- Extended a loan of ₹7.40 lakh in her name
The scammer also accessed her mobile banking application, changed her email ID, and carried out several money transfers totaling ₹27 lakh.
Key Mistakes and Red Flags
Several warning signs were ignored during the scam. One major red flag was the initial WhatsApp call from the so-called customer care executive, which is unusual in real scenarios. Sharing sensitive information like OTPs or codes over the phone was another critical mistake.
How to Avoid eSIM Card Fraud?
To protect yourself from falling victim to similar fraud schemes, consider the following precautions:
- Understand eSIM Technology:
An eSIM is a digital SIM card that does not require a physical chip. Always refer to official websites or visit a telecom service center in person before switching to eSIM services. - Verify Identities:
Never share sensitive information such as OTPs, codes, or passwords with anyone over the phone. Always verify the identity of anyone requesting such information, especially if the call comes via WhatsApp or other messaging apps. - Be Cautious of Unsolicited Calls:
If you receive unexpected calls or messages offering new features or services, be wary. Fraudsters often use apps like WhatsApp to mask their real identity. Double-check any information by contacting customer service directly. - Monitor Your Bank Accounts:
Regularly check your bank accounts for any suspicious activity and report issues immediately to both your bank and the authorities.
By staying informed and vigilant, you can avoid becoming the next victim of sophisticated SIM card fraud schemes.
