Fraudsters are constantly adopting new methods and can quickly steal your hard-earned money. Recently, a new SIM box scam has emerged which is causing huge financial loss to people. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) recently took major action against a network running SIM box devices in Noida, Delhi and Chandigarh. The raids uncovered a large-scale phishing operation, resulting in the seizure of over 21,000 illegally obtained SIM cards.
What is SIM box scam?
A SIM box is a device designed to hold hundreds of SIM cards simultaneously. Fraudsters use this to disguise international calls as local calls to avoid telecom charges and regulations. SIM boxes are also used to send bulk SMS messages containing phishing links, fake loan offers and fraudulent investment schemes.
How does SIM box scam work?
According to a report in Times of India, this scam starts when criminals buy thousands of SIM cards using fake identities. These SIM cards are then inserted into a SIM box connected to a server and dongle. This system sends millions of SMS messages every day, and some people accidentally click on the wrong link. CBI investigation revealed that foreign cyber criminals were also using these services to defraud Indian citizens, making this scam an international threat.
How can you be harmed?
financial fraud
identity theft
how to protect yourself
Avoid clicking on links in text messages; Fraudsters often use tempting offers to get you to click.
Always verify the sender’s contact number, as fraudulent SMS messages often come from random and strange numbers.
