(MENAFN- The Peninsula) The Peninsula
The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) has observed an increase in the number of scam calls from international numbers through OTT apps like WhatsApp, IMO and Viber. Through this alert, CRA would like to inform consumers to beware of such calls and take the necessary action to protect themselves from fraudulent activities.
Typically, scammers allegedly representing telecom service providers call consumers to notify them about 'winning a large financial prize in a raffle draw. The aim of the scam is to discover personal information from the receiver such as bank account details in order to 'transfer the prize money to them. Scammers may also ask for information such as financial details, verification codes, passwords and pin codes.
Upon receiving such a call, or through applications like WhatsApp, IMO, Viber and others, the consumer should not respond to the caller and should not share personal information. They should end the call immediately, block the number and contact the service provider to report them and / or verify the authenticity of the call. 'As telecom consumers, it is important to stay aware of such scams and take proper measures to protect yourself, said Amel Salem Al Hanawi, Consumer Affairs Department Manager, adding, 'CRA takes consumer protection seriously and is constantly working with the service providers to ensure the privacy of the telecoms consumers is protected and the number of unsolicited and illegitimate calls is reduced. To help with these efforts, we encourage consumers to report it to their service provider.
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