A new policy introduced by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) aims to reduce fake calls and messages from October 1, 2024. This new rule will block fake calls or messages at the network level itself. Moreover, telecom companies are using advanced technology, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) to prevent these fraudulent cases. However, scammers are constantly finding new ways to defraud people, including the use of Internet calls. According to the Telecommunications Authority of Thailand, Internet calls often come from numbers starting with +697 or +698. Such calls are difficult to trace, which is why scammers use them to deceive people. They can hide their location by using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), making them even more difficult to track.
If you get a call from an international number starting with +697 or +698, it’s best to ignore it. Such calls are often scams or aggressive marketing strategies. You can also block these numbers on your phone.
If you have answered one of these calls by mistake, do not share any personal information. Scammers may often pose as a government agency, bank, or other organization. If they ask for information, ask for a callback number and say you will call back yourself. If they refuse to provide the number, it is a strong indication that it is a scam.
The central government has launched the Chakshu portal on the Sanchar Sathi website, where you can report fake calls and messages. If you receive suspicious calls or messages, you can report them by visiting this portal and following simple instructions.
Meanwhile, India is preparing to ban imports of laptops, tablets and personal computers from January, two government sources have said. The initiative is an effort to encourage companies like Apple to strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities. If implemented, the scheme could have a major impact on an industry valued at between US$8 to 10 billion, changing the dynamics of India’s IT hardware market, which is currently largely import dependent. .