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| Introduction |
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued an urgent warning for all mobile phone users across India. The alert comes after a surge in cyber fraud cases involving misuse of the call forwarding feature on mobile phones. According to the Ministry, cybercriminals are exploiting this commonly used feature to intercept calls, steal sensitive information, and carry out financial fraud.
This warning has been released by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), which operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs and actively monitors cybercrime threats in the country. What was once a convenient telecom feature has now turned into a dangerous tool in the hands of cyber fraudsters.
What Is the Call Forwarding Feature?
Call forwarding is a legitimate mobile phone feature that allows users to redirect incoming calls to another phone number. People commonly use it when:
Their phone is switched off
They are traveling
Their network signal is weak
They want calls forwarded to an office or alternate number
However, the Ministry of Home Affairs has highlighted that fraudsters are now manipulating this feature without users’ knowledge.
How Cyber Criminals Are Misusing Call Forwarding
According to the I4C alert, cyber fraudsters trick users into enabling call forwarding on their mobile numbers. Once activated, all incoming calls—including bank verification calls and OTP confirmation calls—get redirected to the fraudster’s number.
Common Methods Used by Scammers
Cyber criminals typically use the following techniques:
Pretending to be bank officials or telecom providers
Claiming SIM verification or KYC updates
Asking users to dial USSD codes like *401*number#
Sending phishing SMS or WhatsApp messages
Creating urgency by threatening SIM deactivation
Once the victim follows the instructions, the fraudster gains complete control over incoming calls.
Why This Scam Is Extremely Dangerous
The misuse of call forwarding is particularly dangerous because:
Victims do not receive important bank calls
Fraudsters can intercept OTP verification calls
Financial transactions can be approved without the victim’s knowledge
Personal and confidential data can be compromised
It can lead to bank account emptying within minutes
The Ministry of Home Affairs has called this scam a serious national cyber threat.
Official Statement from the Ministry of Home Affairs
The MHA alert clearly states that:
“Cyber fraudsters are misusing the call forwarding feature on mobile phones to redirect incoming calls, including banking and verification calls, to their own numbers for fraudulent activities.”
The Ministry has urged citizens to remain extremely cautious and avoid following instructions from unknown callers.
How to Check If Call Forwarding Is Enabled on Your Phone
You can easily check whether call forwarding is active on your number:
For Android & iPhone Users
Go to Phone Settings
Select Call Settings
Tap on Call Forwarding
Ensure all forwarding options are disabled
Using USSD Codes
Dial *#21# to check call forwarding status
Dial ##002# to deactivate all call forwarding
How to Protect Yourself from Call Forwarding Fraud
The Ministry of Home Affairs and I4C recommend the following safety steps:
❌ Never dial unknown USSD codes
❌ Do not share OTPs or verification details
❌ Avoid clicking suspicious links
✅ Verify callers claiming to be from banks or telecom companies
✅ Regularly check call forwarding settings
✅ Report suspicious activity immediately
What to Do If You Become a Victim
If you suspect fraud:
Immediately disable call forwarding
Contact your bank and block transactions
Report the incident at cybercrime.gov.in
Call the Cyber Crime Helpline 1930
Inform your telecom service provider
Why Watching the Awareness Video Is Important
The Ministry of Home Affairs has also shared an awareness video explaining this scam in detail. Watching the video helps users:
Understand how fraudsters operate
Identify red flags early
Learn preventive steps visually
The Ministry strongly advises citizens to watch and share the video to spread awareness.
Conclusion
The misuse of the call forwarding feature has emerged as a new and alarming cyber fraud technique. The alert issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) highlights the growing sophistication of cyber criminals.
Staying informed, cautious, and alert is the only way to stay safe in today’s digital world. Always remember—one small mistake can lead to massive financial loss.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the MHA alert about call forwarding fraud?
The MHA alert warns users about cyber criminals misusing call forwarding to redirect calls and commit financial fraud.
Q2. Can call forwarding be activated without my knowledge?
Yes, scammers can trick users into activating it by asking them to dial specific USSD codes.
Q3. How can I disable call forwarding immediately?
Dial ##002# from your mobile phone to deactivate all call forwarding services.
Q4. What should I do if money is stolen from my account?
Immediately call 1930, inform your bank, and file a complaint on cybercrime.gov.in.
Q5. Is this scam limited to Android users?
No, this scam can affect both Android and iPhone users.