With the increasing prevalence of cyber fraud cases targeting unsuspecting Indian citizens, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued a crucial alert to safeguard individuals from a sophisticated form of cyber crime. This alert specifically addresses a cyber criminal technique that results in the unauthorized depletion of bank accounts through covert means.

The MHA's Cyber Wing has successfully identified the latest modus operandi employed by cyber criminals. In this scheme, hackers exploit unsuspecting individuals, leaving them unaware as their bank accounts are emptied. The perpetrators make enticing promises to victims, claiming to provide relief from hacking, only to initiate a cyber crime instead.

The Technique Exploiting Common Citizens:
According to the information provided by the MHA, scammers employ a deceptive technique by reaching out to ordinary citizens through phone calls. If someone receives a call stating that their phone has been hacked and is instructed to dial "*401#9818×××××6" (an unknown number), extreme caution is advised. Executing this action could pose serious risks to the individual.

For smartphone users who fall victim to the scam, dialing *401# and then entering a contact number allows the scammer to gain unauthorized access to the individual's messages and calls. This poses a significant threat to the user's privacy and security.

Access to OTPs:
Once scammers have accessed a One Time Password (OTP), they gain control over the victim's bank account, enabling them to manipulate the balance and empty it completely. Cyber criminals or hackers can exploit this information to eavesdrop on confidential calls, potentially exposing personal secrets.

Reporting Fraud Incidents:
In the unfortunate event of falling prey to such cyber fraud, individuals are urged to report the incident promptly. The MHA has established a Cyber Helpline with the contact number 1930. Victims can reach out to this helpline to narrate their experience and seek assistance in dealing with the aftermath of the cyber crime.

The alert issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs serves as a critical reminder for citizens to remain vigilant and skeptical of unsolicited calls or messages. By staying informed and cautious, individuals can play a pivotal role in protecting themselves from falling victim to evolving cyber threats. If confronted with a potential fraud, reporting the incident to the designated authorities becomes imperative to curb the spread of cyber crimes and ensure a safer digital environment for all.

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