Top News

If you have recently filled out your voter verification form under the SIR process or are preparing to do so, this news is crucial for you. Cybercriminals have begun targeting people by exploiting this ongoing nationwide process. Fraudsters are now calling individuals, posing as Booth Level Officers (BLOs), and draining bank accounts using One-Time Passwords (OTPs).

Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) across several states are continuously warning the public about this new online fraud. Notably, fraudsters are targeting not only new applicants but also those who have already submitted their SIR forms.

How do criminals execute this scam?
The fraud begins with a phone call. The caller identifies themselves as the BLO for your area and claims there is a technical issue while updating or submitting your SIR form.

They then reassure you that an OTP will be sent to your mobile phone to complete the process and insist that you share it immediately. They often warn that failure to provide the OTP could result in your form being rejected or your name being removed from the voter list.

Once a person shares the OTP, cybercriminals use it to gain access to banking or other digital services and withdraw money from the account.

Warning issued by the CEO of Haryana
The Chief Electoral Officer of Haryana has issued a video on their official Facebook page, advising the public to remain vigilant against this type of cyber fraud. The video highlights that many people have already fallen victim to such scams, prompting this awareness campaign.

The ECI or BLOs never ask for an OTP.
Officials associated with the Election Commission have clarified that neither the Election Commission of India (ECI) nor any BLO ever calls individuals to ask for an OTP in connection with the SIR process, form updates, submissions, or voter list verification. If someone claims to be a BLO and asks for an OTP, consider it a fraudulent call.

What should you do if you receive such a call?
Do not share the OTP under any circumstances.
Do not panic or get swayed by what the caller says.
Do not disclose the OTP, even if the caller threatens to remove your name from the voter list.
Disconnect the call immediately if it seems suspicious.
Report the number to the nearest police station or via the cybercrime portal.

A little vigilance can save you from a major financial scam. Remember, the OTP is meant only for you; sharing it with anyone could lead to serious consequences.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Amar Ujala. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.