India is the second-largest smartphone market in the world. However, it is not the quickest when it comes to adopting a new network. The 5G network has been active since the end of 2019. Although 5G smartphones have been selling in India, there has been no active 5G connection. A few days ago, India officially commenced 5G network with its three major carriers. However, most 5G smartphones can not connect to the network. This is because the smartphones will need a 5G OTA update from the manufacturer. There is now a preponderance of 5G-related scams in India.
5G network scam in India
The Mumbai police in India issued a warning about 5G-related scams. Scammers trick users by offering instructions to upgrade to 5G connectivity. Previously, the Hyderabad and Gurugram police also warned users about similar scams. After India launched 5G services on October 1, the network is being rolled out slowly in stages. The next generation of mobile networks brings numerous upgrades. However, it appears to be creating new opportunities for scammers. A tweet from the Mumbai police alerted users to a new scam. Scammers are deceiving customers by giving people a guide to upgrading to 5G. The police warn that users should not share any personal or banking information. Also, it is risky to click on any strange link.
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Internet scammers send links in the name of 5G. If the user opens the link, there is a risk of hackers attacking the phone. Users are at risk if they are not vigilant. “By sending a link to upgrade from 4G to 5G SIM, the account balance is cleared. These links are sent on behalf of the respective telcos.”
Reports show scammers pretending to be executives of major telecom companies and directing people to switch to 5G SIM cards. However, in the process, they send the user an OTP (one-time password) or link, which can potentially lead to further intrusions into the user’s device or bank account.