The call forwarding scam has become increasingly common, with scammers finding new ways to trick unsuspecting victims. By understanding how the scam works and learning how to start and stop call forwarding on your device, you can stay safe and maintain control over your calls.
How the Call Forwarding Scam Works
The call forwarding scam typically starts with a scammer contacting you pretending to be from your phone service provider. They will claim there is an issue with your account that needs urgent attention, such as it being hacked.
The scammer will then ask you to dial a code starting with *401# or provide other instructions to enable call forwarding. Unknowingly, this forwards your calls to the scammer. They can then receive OTPs and messages intended for you, gaining access to your other accounts.
Scammers use increasingly sophisticated tactics, like spoofing official-looking caller IDs. They may pretend to be law enforcement and make threats about your account being compromised if you do not comply with their call forwarding instructions.
Also Read: Russian YouTuber Faces Harassment While Live Streaming in Delhi’s Sarojini Nagar Market
Protecting Yourself from the Scam
- There are several precautions you can take to avoid becoming a victim:
- Use tools like Truecaller to screen incoming calls and identify scammers. Keep your Truecaller app updated with the latest scam numbers.
- Be wary of unsolicited calls from alleged customer service reps asking you to dial codes or enable call forwarding. Verify the caller’s identity before taking any action.
- Never dial codes like *401# at the request of an incoming caller. Understand what call forwarding is before enabling it.
- Contact your mobile operator if you suspect you have been targeted or scammed. They can help stop call forwarding and secure your account.
- Report suspicious callers to the authorities to help prevent others from being victimized.
How to Start and Stop Call Forwarding on Mobile Networks
If you want to utilize call forwarding legitimately on your own terms, most major mobile networks allow you to control it via dialing codes.
Airtel
– To forward calls when unanswered: **61*number#
– To deactivate: ##61#
– To forward when unreachable: **62*number#
– To deactivate: ##62#
BSNL
– To forward unanswered calls: **61*number#
– To deactivate: ##61#
– To forward when unreachable: **62*number#
– To deactivate: ##62#
Jio
– To always forward calls: *401*number#
– To deactivate: *402
– To forward when unanswered: *403*number#
– To deactivate: *404
Vodafone Idea (Vi)
– To always forward calls: **21*number#
– To deactivate: ##002#
– To forward when busy: **67*number#
– To deactivate: ##67#
– To forward when unanswered: **61*number#
– To deactivate: ##61#
By staying vigilant against scams and learning how to properly use call forwarding, you can avoid compromising your mobile security and privacy. Be proactive in protecting yourself and spread awareness to help others in your community avoid these criminal tactics.
Tips for Recognizing and Avoiding Scams
- Ask for credentials and call back numbers if someone requests you to alter account settings. Verify the information before taking any action.
- Government agencies and law enforcement will not call demanding payments or account changes. Hang up if you receive such calls.
- Be suspicious of threatening language demanding immediate action or compliance. Scammers often use fear tactics and urgency to gain control.
- Check for strange activity after receiving suspicious calls regarding your accounts, like new forwarding numbers. Alert your provider of potential fraud.
Also Read: Kohli’s Century Against Bangladesh Adds Fuel to Kettleborough’s Wide Call Controversy
Ways Mobile Providers Combat Scams
- Mobile networks train staff to recognize scam tactics and advise customers. Report suspicious calls to your provider.
- Providers use technology to identify and block calls from known scam numbers. Keep your account software updated.
- Account protection programs may be available through your provider. Inquire about extra security options.
- Some networks allow customers to report scam calls directly via dedicated phone numbers or online forms to aid investigations.
When to Legitimately Use Call Forwarding
- Temporarily forward calls when traveling or using a different phone number. Disable when no longer needed.
- Forward calls to voice mail or other numbers when intentionally unreachable for periods of time. Adjust as necessary.
- Set conditional forwarding to route calls to different numbers based on whether you answer, are busy, out of reach, etc.
- Permanently forward your previous number to a new one after switching providers without having to redistribute the old number.
The expanded article is now 862 words while maintaining a focus on call forwarding scams, precautions, and proper usage guidance. Let me know if you would like me to modify or expand it further.
Also Read: Zomato Refutes Viral Video Showing Woman Riding Bike With Company Bag
Follow Us on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Flipboard | Google News
