ByWhy is it important to identify scammers’ phone numbers?
In today’s digital age, there has been an increase in cyber crimes and phone scams. In such a situation, it has become very important to identify scammers’ phone numbers to protect themselves from them. This not only helps in maintaining your financial security but also protects you from mental stress.
Easy ways to identify scammers’ phone numbers
1. Use caller ID and blocking apps
Caller ID apps, such as Truecaller, Hiya, or Whoscall, help identify unknown numbers and block scam calls.
Truecaller: This app is famous for identifying and reporting scam numbers.
Blocking feature: If a number is harassing you repeatedly, block it with the help of the app.
2. Pay attention to suspicious messages and calls
Common patterns of scammers:
Calls in the name of lottery or gift: “You have won a lottery of Rs 10 lakh.”
Emergency calls: “There is a problem with your bank account. Please share your OTP immediately.”
Frightening messages: “There has been a large transaction from your credit card.”
These calls usually give false information.
3. Avoid clicking on unknown links
Scammers often send phishing links in messages. Clicking on these links can steal your data.
Always keep in mind that banks and government institutions avoid giving you information through links.
4. Search for phone numbers on Google
Search for an unknown number on Google to get its information. Many times, other people have also lodged complaints about the same number.
Search by entering keywords like “phone number + scam“.
Many websites, such as ScamNumbers.info or WhoCalledMe, list scam numbers.
5. Verify with banks and other organizations
If a caller introduces himself as a bank or government official, end the call immediately.
Verify by calling the official number of the concerned institution.
Do not share your financial information with anyone.
6. Use the Do Not Disturb (DND) service
To reduce scam calls, activate the DND service on your mobile network.
Visit the official website of TRAI and register for the DND service.
This service helps to block promotional and unwanted calls.
Additional tips to avoid scammers
1. Take care of your privacy
Do not make your personal information public on social media.
Share your mobile number only with trusted individuals and organizations.
2. Follow cyber security rules
Use two-factor authentication (2FA).
Change your passwords regularly.
Use only trusted websites and apps.
3. Do not respond to any calls immediately
In any kind of emergency, keep calm and listen to the call carefully.
After ending the call, check the information related to yourself.
How to report scam calls?
1. File a complaint with the police
If you receive a call from a scammer, immediately file a complaint with the local police station.
Provide the call recording and number details along with the complaint.
2. Use the cybercrime portal
In India, file a complaint online by visiting the Cyber Crime Reporting Portal ([cybercrime.gov.in](https://www.cybercrime.gov.in)).
Conclusion
Avoiding scammers is easy if you are vigilant and take necessary precautions. By not responding immediately to unknown calls and messages, you can protect yourself and your family.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How to identify scammers’ phone numbers?
Answer: To identify scammers’ phone numbers, use apps like Truecaller, ignore suspicious calls and messages, and search the number on Google. Also, be cautious before clicking on any links.
Q2: Can I block scam calls?
Answer: Yes, you can block scam calls using the call-blocking feature on your mobile. Apps like Truecaller and Hiya also help in blocking scam numbers.
Q3: Where to report scam calls?
Answer: You can lodge a complaint at the local police station or online at the Government of India’s Cyber Crime Reporting Portal ([cybercrime.gov.in](https://www.cybercrime.gov.in)).
Q4: What to do to protect yourself from scammers?
Answer:
Do not respond immediately to calls and messages from unknown numbers.
Do not share your financial and personal information.
Avoid clicking on phishing links.
Activate DND service.
Q5: What kind of calls do scammers usually make?
Answer:
Claims of winning a lottery or a prize.
Asking for bank details or OTP.
Intimidating messages.
Fake emergency calls.
Question 6: Can information on every number be found on Truecaller?
Answer: Information on most numbers can be found on Truecaller, but information of some private numbers or those that are not registered on Truecaller cannot be found.
Question 7: What are phishing links?
Answer: Phishing links are suspicious links designed to steal your personal and financial information. These links are usually sent through messages or emails.
Question 8: How to activate the DND service?
Answer: To activate DND service, contact the customer care of your mobile network provider or register by visiting the official website of TRAI.
Question 9: Why not pay attention to unknown calls?
Answer: Paying attention to unknown calls can trap you in the trap of scammers. These calls are made to steal your personal information or cause you financial loss.
Question 10: What to do if you have suffered financial loss due to a scam call?
Answer:
Immediately contact your bank and get the transaction blocked.
File a complaint on the Cyber Crime Portal ([cybercrime.gov.in](https://www.cybercrime.gov.in)).
