Scam calls and fraudulent SMS messages have become a daily nuisance for mobile users in India. Whether it’s fake lottery winnings, deceptive bank alerts, or unsolicited loan offers, these scams prey on unsuspecting individuals. If you’ve ever picked up a call promising “Congratulations! You have won Rs. 10 lakh!” only to realize it’s a sham, you’re not alone.
The good news is that you can take action to report and block scam calls and SMS in India. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to safeguard yourself from these fraudulent activities.
How to Report and Block Scam Calls & SMS in India
To report scam calls and SMS in India, use the Do Not Disturb (DND) service via 1909 or report them through the TAFCOP (Telecom Analytics for Fraud Management & Consumer Protection) portal. You can also register complaints on the TRAI DND App or via your telecom provider’s portal. To block spam calls and SMS, enable DND settings, use your phone’s built-in spam filters, and install third-party call-blocking apps like Truecaller.
What Are Scam Calls & SMS and Why Are They Dangerous?
Scam calls and SMS are fraudulent attempts to steal personal information or money from individuals. These scams often include fake bank alerts, lottery winnings, job offers, or impersonation of government officials.
The primary dangers include:
- Financial loss: Scammers trick people into sending money or revealing bank details.
- Identity theft: Personal information like Aadhaar or PAN details can be misused.
- Malware links: Clicking on fraudulent SMS links can infect your phone with viruses.
For example, if you receive a message stating, “Your bank account will be blocked. Click this link to verify details,” it’s a scam designed to steal your credentials.
How to Identify Scam Calls & SMS?
Many scam calls and SMS follow predictable patterns. Here’s how you can identify them:
Common Signs of Scam Calls
- Calls from international numbers or unknown local numbers.
- The caller pretends to be from a bank, telecom company, or government agency.
- They ask for OTP, CVV, or personal details.
- Offers of free gifts, lottery winnings, or job opportunities.
- Threatening tone claiming account suspension or legal action.
Common Signs of Scam SMS
- Messages with spelling errors or unusual formatting.
- Links that don’t match the official website (e.g., paytm-verifv.com instead of paytm.com).
- Offers that sound too good to be true, like free money or prizes.
- Urgent calls to action, like “Click now to avoid penalty.”
How to Report Scam Calls & SMS in India?
If you receive a scam call or SMS, reporting it is the first step toward preventing others from falling victim. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Report via 1909 (TRAI’s DND Service)
- Open your SMS app.
- Forward the scam SMS to 1909 in the format: SPAM [Sender ID] [Message Content].
- Alternatively, call 1909 and follow the instructions.
2. Use the TAFCOP Portal
- Visit https://tafcop.dgtelecom.gov.in.
- Enter your mobile number and verify with OTP.
- Check for fraudulent mobile numbers linked to your ID and report them.
3. Use the TRAI DND App
- Download TRAI’s DND 2.0 App from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Register your complaint against scam messages or calls.
4. Report to Your Telecom Provider
- Jio: Call 198 or use the MyJio app.
- Airtel: Use the Airtel Thanks app or call 121.
- Vi (Vodafone-Idea): Use the Vi app or call 199.
- BSNL: Call 1503 to register complaints.
How to Block Scam Calls & SMS on Your Phone?
Blocking scam calls and SMS is the best way to stop them from disturbing you. Here’s how:
1. Activate DND (Do Not Disturb) Service
- Send an SMS: START 0 to 1909.
- This blocks all promotional and spam calls/SMS.
2. Use Built-in Spam Filters
- Android: Go to Phone app > Settings > Caller ID & Spam > Enable.
- iPhone: Go to Settings > Messages > Filter Unknown Senders.
3. Install Call Blocking Apps
- Truecaller: Identifies and blocks spam calls automatically.
- Hiya: Provides caller verification.
- Whoscall: Filters out scam messages and calls.
4. Block Manually on Your Phone
- Open the Phone app.
- Tap the scam number and select Block/Report Spam.
- For SMS, long-press the message and select Block Sender.
How to Protect Yourself from Scam Calls & SMS?
Preventive measures can reduce your risk of falling victim to scams:
- Never share personal details like OTPs, Aadhaar, or bank passwords over calls.
- Verify caller identities by contacting the official customer service.
- Avoid clicking on unknown links in SMS messages.
- Register your number in DND to reduce promotional calls.
- Use spam detection apps to block scam attempts proactively.
“The best defense against scams is awareness. Stay informed, stay safe.”
Comparison of Reporting Methods
| Reporting Method | How to Use | Response Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1909 SMS/Call | Send SMS “SPAM [Sender] [Message]” to 1909 | Immediate Blocking |
| TAFCOP Portal | Check and report fraudulent numbers online | Varies |
| TRAI DND App | Register complaints via mobile app | Few Days |
| Telecom Providers | Call customer care or use their app | Varies |
Conclusion
Scam calls and SMS are a growing concern in India, but you don’t have to be a helpless victim. By reporting fraudulent numbers, blocking spam calls, and staying alert, you can protect yourself and help authorities take action. The key is to act swiftly whenever you suspect a scam.
So, the next time a caller claims you’ve won a jackpot or threatens to suspend your SIM, remember—don’t panic, don’t share information, and report the scam immediately!