Cybersecurity has consistently been a significant concern for the Indian government, leading them to take stringent measures from time to time. As part of these ongoing efforts to curb fraud through mobile phones, the Indian government has deactivated 55 lakh phone numbers. Let’s explore the reasons behind this initiative.
Technology Desk, New Delhi. The Indian government periodically takes new steps to tighten its grip on cybercrime. This time, the government has taken a significant step to prevent fraud through mobile phones by deactivating 55 lakh phone numbers.
The government has initiated a substantial move to combat deception through mobile phones and has shut down 55 lakh phone numbers that were linked to fake documents. This major decision is part of a verification campaign launched through the Telecommunications Partners Portal. The campaign aims to prevent cybercrimes and financial fraud conducted through illegal SIM cards.
Deactivation of Over 55 Lakh Phone Numbers As part of this verification campaign, 55.52 lakh (5.5 million) connections associated with fake documents have been deactivated. The success of this initiative was highlighted by the Minister of Communications, Devusinh Chauhan, while addressing Parliament.
Devices Also Blocked In addition to deactivating phone numbers, the government has also blocked 1.32 lakh handsets used in cybercrimes and financial fraud. Furthermore, 13.42 lakh suspicious connections reported by citizens have been disconnected.
Awareness Campaign and Consumer Education Apart from these actions, the government is actively working to increase awareness among consumers about the connections registered in their names and the associated mobile numbers. A public awareness campaign has been launched to reduce cybercrimes.
The government believes that obtaining SIM cards with fake documents and using them contributes to various criminal activities, including financial scams, phishing calls, and identity theft. Therefore, it is crucial for people to remain vigilant regarding this issue.
