Beware! Your mobile number could be sold and exploited!

What is the scam all about?

With the convenience of online recharge and the ubiquitous requirement of phone numbers for various transactions, the risk of your number falling into the hands of those who engage in unscrupulous activities has increased. This alarming issue has been uncovered through cyber police investigations, particularly prevalent in areas like Bengaluru North and West.

A significant portion of complaints received by the Mahila Helpline relates to mobile phone harassment, with miscreants exploiting personal information for malicious purposes. Online advertisements offering discounted products or gifts often request your mobile number and address. Sadly, this innocent act can lead to torment, as harassers bombard individuals with obscene messages, solicitation for sex, and even threaten to publish their numbers on explicit websites.

How it is done

The modus operandi of these offenders involves acquiring mobile numbers and categorizing them based on age and gender. The obtained data is then sold to various entities, ranging from shopping mall owners to advertising agencies, at different rates. Women's numbers are marked with a blue pen, while young women's numbers are marked with a red pen, making it easier for buyers to identify and purchase them.
Victims of such harassment can block the harasser's number, but the real challenge arises if the miscreants resort to uploading the victim's number on explicit sites. It's crucial to speak out against such actions and file a complaint with evidence, as legal repercussions can range from six months to seven years of imprisonment.

How to protect yourself

To protect yourself from falling victim to such schemes, consider the following precautions:

1.  Avoid unknown numbers
2. Don’t respond to suspicious messages
3. Be careful as you share your numbers
4. File a police complaint if necessary