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In today’s digital age, cyber fraudsters are evolving rapidly, and their newest scam involves mimicking government agencies to trick unsuspecting citizens. If you've recently received a call warning you that your mobile number is being suspended due to “illegal activity,” you're not alone. Thousands across India are being targeted with such fake calls, where scammers impersonate TRAI officials to defraud people.

The Rise of “Government Voice” Scams

Imagine getting a robotic call that sounds eerily like a government announcement. It might say: “Your mobile number is being deactivated due to suspicious activity. For more information, press 9.” It’s natural to panic – but don't fall for it. This is not a legitimate government call. It’s a trap.

These fraudulent calls are now being reported across the country. Scammers are using pre-recorded messages in formal, authoritative voices to impersonate officials from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). Once you press 9, you're connected to someone claiming to be a cybercrime officer, CBI agent, or even a Supreme Court official.

In many cases, these calls originate from international numbers, often from Nepal or other neighboring countries, using VoIP services to mask their origin.

“Digital Arrest” – The New Cyber Trap

Once you’re connected to the so-called official, the fraud escalates. Victims are often told they are under investigation for crimes such as money laundering, terror funding, or online fraud. The scammer then initiates a fake “digital arrest.”

This terrifying experience involves:

• Forcing the victim to stay on a live video call.

• Prohibiting them from contacting family or friends.

• Demanding personal information like Aadhaar number, bank account details, and even coercing them to perform online transactions.

Fraudsters often rope in others posing as judges, police officials, and even “Supreme Court inspectors” to make the scam more believable. They use fear and urgency to exploit the victim’s trust and extract money or sensitive data.

TRAI Issues Official Clarification

The Ministry of Communications has issued a public warning about this growing menace. Here's what they clarified:

“TRAI does not call or message any individual regarding mobile number disconnection. It has not authorized any third-party agency to perform such actions.”

The government has emphasized that only telecom service providers—like Jio, Airtel, or Vi—have the authority to suspend mobile numbers, and that too only for valid reasons such as:

• Improper KYC documentation

• Unpaid bills

• Misuse of network services

So, if you receive a call or message threatening to block your number in the name of TRAI, consider it fake and report it immediately.

How to Protect Yourself from Such Scams

1. Don’t Panic: Government agencies will never threaten you over a phone call or demand your bank details.

2. Disconnect Suspicious Calls: If a call seems fishy or demands urgent action, hang up immediately.

3. Never Share Sensitive Information: Don’t reveal your Aadhaar, OTP, bank info, or passwords on any unsolicited call.

4. Report the Fraud: Contact the Cyber Crime Helpline at 1930 or visit your nearest police station.

5. Stay Updated: Regularly follow trusted news sources and government advisories about emerging scams.

Final Words: Awareness is Your Best Defense

Cybercriminals are getting smarter, and their methods more convincing. They now use official-sounding voices, fake titles, and even digital tools to trick people into compliance. But with awareness and caution, you can stay one step ahead.

Remember: TRAI will never call you to disconnect your number. If someone claims otherwise, it’s time to hang up and report the scam. Stay informed, stay alert, and never let fear cloud your judgment in the digital age.