SIM Box Scam – What You Need to Know

Kokila Chokkanathan
A SIM Box Scam is a type of telecom fraud where criminals use multiple SIM cards to manipulate calls and steal money from unsuspecting users.

1. How the SIM Box Scam Works

Fraudsters buy multiple low-cost prepaid SIM cards from telecom operators.

They use a SIM box device, which can hold dozens of SIM cards.

Calls, especially international calls, are routed through these SIM cards to avoid higher telecom charges.

This enables scammers to impersonate legitimate numbers, bypass call charges, and sometimes commit financial fraud.

Victims may receive calls from “local” numbers that appear genuine but are actually routed through a SIM box.

2. Why It’s Dangerous

  • Financial Loss: Fraudsters can trick users into paying fake bills or transferring money.
  • Privacy Threat: Your call data or information can be intercepted.
  • Network Abuse: Disrupts normal telecom services and leads to revenue losses for telecom operators.
3. How to Protect Yourself

Do Not Share OTPs or Personal Info: Never give OTPs or sensitive info to unknown callers.

Verify Callers: If a call seems suspicious, hang up and call the official number of the organization.

Check Active SIMs in Your Name: Use TRAI’s SMS service (1909) to check and block unauthorized SIMs.

Report Suspicious Activity: Contact your telecom operator or cybercrime authorities immediately.

Enable Caller ID Verification (CNAP): Helps detect fraudulent numbers and spoofing.

4. Signs You Might Be Targeted

  • Unexpected calls claiming urgent payments.
  • Calls from “local” numbers that ask for bank details or OTPs.
  • Receiving multiple unknown calls from the same area code repeatedly.
Bottom Line: The SIM Box Scam is a telecom-based fraud that tricks users and steals money by masking real numbers. Protect yourself by verifying calls, securing your SIMs, and avoiding sharing sensitive info.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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