The National Cyber Emergency Response Team (CERT) has issued a security alert over a sudden surge in phishing attacks targeting citizens through SMS, WhatsApp messages, and phone calls.
According to the advisory, fake messages and calls are being used to steal personal and financial information from unsuspecting users. The team has urged citizens to remain cautious and avoid responding to suspicious messages or calls.
National CERT has warned users not to click on unknown links or share sensitive data such as bank account details, national ID numbers, or one-time passwords (OTPs) with anyone. The advisory emphasized that people should always log in through verified websites only and use official communication channels to protect their information. It further noted that phishing messages often lure victims with false promises of prizes, lotteries, or bank alerts.
The cyber response team appealed to the public to report and block fraudulent numbers and take immediate steps if they suspect being targeted. Citizens have been advised to change their passwords promptly if they accidentally click on a suspicious link and to report the incident to the relevant authorities. NCERT also recommended enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) on mobile and email accounts to strengthen security.
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As part of the government’s ongoing awareness campaign, “Stay Safe from Phishing – Protect Your Information,” NCERT has encouraged citizens to watch and share awareness videos with friends and family. The campaign aims to educate the public about identifying and avoiding online scams and deceptive digital practices.
National CERT reiterated that no official or representative from any organization will ever ask for passwords or OTP codes via phone or text message. It emphasized that phishing attacks are on the rise nationwide, and vigilance and public awareness remain the most effective defenses against such cyber threats.
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