Scammers are evolving their tactics, and the latest warning from the Gujarat Police Department (GJPD) highlights a new text message scam aimed at stealing personal information. Many people have reported receiving fraudulent SMS messages that appear official but are designed to trick them into sharing sensitive details. This scam poses a serious threat, especially to younger and tech-savvy individuals who rely heavily on their phones for communication and transactions.
Understanding how this scam works and the steps you can take to protect yourself is essential. The GJPD has issued guidelines to help the public recognize suspicious messages and stay safe. In this article, we will break down what you should watch out for and share tips on avoiding these scams based on trusted.
What Is the New Text Message Scam?
The new scam involves receiving messages that may look like alerts from banks, government agencies, or courier services. These texts ask recipients to click on links or provide personal information such as bank account numbers, OTPs (One-Time Passwords), or Aadhaar details. Once this information is shared, scammers use it to commit fraud, including unauthorized transactions and identity theft.
The GJPD clarified that these messages often contain urgent language or threats to pressure people into responding quickly without verifying. According to the [Cyber Security Awareness Portal of India](https://www.cert-in.org.in/), legitimate organizations never ask for sensitive information via SMS.
How to Identify Scam Text Messages
Being cautious about unexpected or suspicious messages is your first line of defense. Watch out for messages with spelling mistakes, unusual sender numbers, or those requesting confidential information. If a message asks you to click a link or download an app, always double-check its authenticity.
Other red flags include:
- Messages claiming you won a lottery or prize.
- Requests for verification of bank details or passwords.
- Warnings of account suspension with a link to “fix” the problem.
If you receive such messages, do not respond or click links. Instead, contact the organization directly using official contact details available on their website.
Steps to Protect Yourself from Text Message Scams
The GJPD suggests the following safety measures to avoid falling victim to SMS scams:
- Never share OTPs, passwords, or personal info over SMS.
- Avoid clicking on unfamiliar links received via text.
- Register your mobile number in the Do Not Disturb (DND) service to reduce spam messages.
- Install a reliable antivirus or security app on your phone.
- Report suspicious messages to your mobile operator and to cybercrime authorities like the (https://cybercrime.gov.in/).
Being mindful and cautious when dealing with text messages can save you a lot of trouble. Stay updated with alerts from trusted sources and never hesitate to verify a message’s legitimacy before acting on it.
What To Do If You Have Fallen Victim to a Scam
If you suspect that you have shared your information with scammers, act quickly. Change your bank passwords and notify your bank immediately so they can monitor or freeze your accounts. Report the incident to the nearest police station and file a complaint online at [Cybercrime.gov.in].
Additionally, keep an eye on your bank statements for unauthorized transactions. Inform your mobile service provider if you receive further scam messages. Taking prompt action increases the chances of minimizing the damage caused by scammers.
Conclusion: Stay Smart and Stay Safe
Text message scams continue to rise, but staying informed and alert can protect you from fraud. The Gujarat Police Department’s warning is a reminder to treat unexpected messages with caution. Remember, genuine organizations will never ask for sensitive information over SMS.
Keep yourself updated with trusted government resources such as the [National Crime Records Bureau](https://ncrb.gov.in/) and always verify before you trust. Your awareness is the best defense against scams designed to steal your personal information.
