Whatsapp Scam : Beware of numbers starting with +92, +44, and +1

The Indian government and the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) have issued an advisory warning people to beware of WhatsApp scammer numbers, which means scam calls coming through WhatsApp. The numbers start with +92, the country code of Pakistan. These scam calls originate from Pakistan and other countries and are part of organised rackets. Moreover, these WhatsApp scammer calls from international numbers even try to impersonate DoT officials, claiming illegal activities, and threatening people.

The WhatsApp scam warning comes after thousands of Indian WhatsApp users have reported receiving calls from numbers like +92 300XXXX, +92 301XXXX, etc. Scam calls offering lucrative job offers, encouraging the download of WhatsApp Gold Premium in the name of an official WhatsApp account, and stealing money via QR code scans are some other common WhatsApp scams in India.

Once the WhatsApp scammer number call is answered, an automated pre-recorded message speaks in Hindi and asks to call back on an alternate mobile number due to poor network coverage. This technique masks the scammer’s identity and tricks people into calling back and falling into the trap.

The scammers gather personal information like Aadhaar, PAN, OTPs, and bank account details from unsuspecting people once the call is connected again. This data is then used to carry out fraudulent transactions and identity theft. This leads to major financial losses and stress for victims.

One of the reports observed that most of the WhatsApp scammer calls are made from the state of Bengal (22.9%), followed by Uttar Pradesh (7.3%) and then Madhya Pradesh (6.1%) and Maharashtra (5%).

In this article, you will get the detailed information about how to solve WhatsApp spam, Recent scams across India, how to track a scammer on WhatsApp and much more.

Common Scams Involving +92, +44, and +1 Numbers

While these country codes can be used for legitimate calls, they are also frequently used by WhatsApp scammers. Here are some common scams associated with these numbers:

+92 (Pakistan)

• Tech Support Scams: Scammers posing as technicians from well-known tech companies often use +92 numbers. They claim to have detected viruses or malware on your computer and offer to "fix" the issue for a fee.

• Romantic Scams: WhatsApp Scammers may create fake online profiles and claim to be from Pakistan. They may build a romantic relationship with their victims and eventually ask for money.

+44 (United Kingdom)

• Debt Collection Scams: Scammers often use +44 numbers to pretend to be debt collectors. They may threaten legal action or claim you owe money for services you never used.

• Government Imposter Scams: Scammers may pose as government officials, such as those from the HMRC (Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs) or the police. They may claim that you owe taxes or that you are involved in a crime.

+1 (North America)

• Tech Support Scams: Similar to +92 scams, scammers often use +1 numbers to pose as tech support representatives.

• Phishing Scams: Scammers may call and pretend to be from a legitimate organisation, such as a bank or government agency. They may ask for personal information, such as your Social Security number or credit card details.

• Lottery Scams: Scammers may call and inform you that you have won a lottery or prize. They will often require you to pay a fee to claim the prize.

Remember: If you receive a scam WhatsApp message or a call from an unfamiliar number, especially one starting with +92, +44, or +1, be cautious. Do not provide any personal information or financial details unless you are sure of the caller's identity.

Read More: PAN Card Scam

How To Avoid WhatsApp Scam Calls?

With scam calls on WhatsApp increasing every day, staying alert is the first step to protecting your data and money. Here are some simple yet effective tips on how to solve WhatsApp spam, which you can follow to avoid falling into the scammer’s trap.

• Be alert if any international number calls you over WhatsApp, especially starting with +92, +44, and +1. These are the codes of Pakistan, the UK, and the USA, where such scam centres are widespread.

• Do not call back on any alternate number they ask you to. No matter how authentic and urgent the reason sounds.

• Never share personal information like OTPs, passwords, Aadhaar, etc. over such phone calls or messages.

• Use the Truecaller app to identify scam numbers reported by other users and avoid picking them up.

• Notify authorities about such scam numbers so they can be blocked for others and legal action can be initiated.

Conclusion

WhatsApp scam calls are becoming a common threat, but with awareness and timely action, you can safeguard your privacy and finances. Always remember—prevention is better than cure, and reporting cybercrimes ensures that others stay safe too.
At Jaagruk Bharat, we simplify the process of filing a cyber complaint and ensure your issue is addressed in the right way. With expert guidance, a user-friendly platform, and quick response, Jaagruk Bharat is the trusted choice for thousands of people to report scams and stay protected online.

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