Top News

Cyber ​​Fraud: If your phone is suddenly flooded with messages about power outages, KYC updates, expiring reward points, part-time jobs, or delayed courier deliveries, don't dismiss it as a mere coincidence.

Cyber ​​Fraud: If your phone is suddenly flooded with messages about power outages, KYC updates, expiring reward points, part-time jobs, or delayed courier deliveries, don't dismiss it as a mere coincidence. Cybersecurity experts say that sometimes these messages are the work of scammers operating nearby, using dangerous devices like SMS blasters or IMSI catchers.

What is an SMS blaster and how does it work?

An SMS blaster essentially acts like a fake mobile tower. Normally, a phone connects to the nearest real tower, but scammers use a portable device to temporarily weaken the real signal. Then, phones in the vicinity, within a radius of about 500 meters, unknowingly connect to this fake network. As soon as the connection is established, fraudulent messages start appearing on the phone.

Why is the 2G network a weapon for scammers?

The 2G network plays the most crucial role in this entire scheme. This device forces the phone to switch from secure networks like 4G or 5G to the older 2G network, where security is much weaker. Taking advantage of this vulnerability, scammers change the sender's name. Instead of a number, names like HDFC-BANK, SBI-SEC, or INCOME-TAX appear on the screen, making the message seem genuine, and people easily fall for it.

The real trap is hidden in the message

These messages either create fear or offer temptation. Some threaten to close bank accounts, others talk about expiring reward points worth thousands of rupees, while some give false alarms about power cuts or courier updates. Many messages promise daily earnings in the name of part-time jobs. Clicking on the links provided in these messages can lead to the leakage of bank details, compromise of personal information, and even weaken OTP-based security.

This scam is spreading rapidly across the country.

In recent months, there has been a surge in such fraud cases. In December 2025, the CBI conducted simultaneous raids in Delhi, Noida, and Chandigarh, busting a large network that was sending millions of fake messages daily. The investigation recovered hundreds of USB hubs, servers, and thousands of fake SIM cards. The role of some insiders connected to the telecom system was also suspected.

Foreign Connections and Multi-Crore Scams

In January 2026, the Cyberabad police in Hyderabad apprehended a gang with foreign links that had defrauded people of over ₹5 crore through fake trading apps and bank alerts. The accused possessed SMS blasters, which they used to send messages in crowded areas using names resembling banks. The investigation revealed their connections to Cambodia and China.

Rising Numbers and a Disturbing Reality

A Ministry of Home Affairs report indicates that telecom fraud cases increased by nearly 300 percent between 2024 and 2025. According to I4C data, cyber fraud cost people over ₹30,000 crore in 2025, with more than 40 lakh complaints registered. The government blocked over 15 lakh suspicious SIM cards and more than 5 lakh mobile IMEIs, yet fraudsters continue to find new ways to operate. Experts believe that currently, only 10-12 percent of the defrauded amount is recovered.

How to Protect Yourself?

Experts advise that disabling the 2G network in your phone settings can be a significant safeguard, as fraudsters often exploit this network. Do not blindly click on links received in messages claiming to be from banks or service providers, and always use official apps or websites. If your phone suddenly loses 4G or 5G connectivity and only shows 2G, consider it a warning and be vigilant.