Cybercriminals are defrauding people under the guise of installing mobile towers on behalf of TRAI. These messages are fraudulent; TRAI does not issue such letters. Remain vigilant, do not send money, and immediately report to the cyber cell or PIB Fact Check.
Recently, many people have received suspicious messages claiming that they have received permission from TRAI (Telecom Regulatory Authority of India) to install a mobile tower on their property. These messages promise significant monthly income but require an upfront payment. If you have received such a message, be aware that it is a fraud scheme operated by cybercriminals.
Why are such messages related to mobile towers appearing?
Telecom companies install new mobile towers nationwide to strengthen their networks. When they cannot secure government land, they often lease private land. This involves a legal agreement with the landowner, with the company paying rent monthly.
However, a fraudulent letter is currently circulating on social media and platforms like WhatsApp, promising mobile tower installation in the name of TRAI and demanding a processing fee of ₹5000.
PIB Fact Check Exposes the Scam
The Press Information Bureau (PIB)'s Fact Check team investigated this viral letter and confirmed it as completely fraudulent and deceptive.
The fake letter stated that a mobile tower would be installed on Mr. Muni Ramireddy's land under the 'Telecommunication Act 1972' and required an initial deposit of ₹5000. PIB confirmed that TRAI never issued such a letter.
PIB warned the public via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, urging them to ignore such messages and letters and not to deposit any money.
How do the scammers deceive you?
Cybercriminals send fake letters or messages in the name of TRAI. These messages claim approval for a mobile tower on your plot. They then demand money under various pretexts, such as:
- ₹5000 for registration
- ₹10,000 as a security deposit
- Requests for bank details or documents like Aadhaar card
Does TRAI send such messages?
No! TRAI never sends such messages or letters to individuals. PIB Fact Check has confirmed this. A recent fake letter claimed that TRAI had approved the installation of a mobile tower on Mr. Muni Ramireddy's property and demanded a ₹5000 deposit.
PIB Fact Check investigated and declared the letter entirely fraudulent. TRAI is not involved in such processes and does not solicit such fees from individuals.
If you have become a victim, what should you do?
- Do not transfer any money – Avoid paying money regardless of the reason given.
- Check the official website – If someone claims to represent a government agency, verify the information on the agency's official website.
- File a complaint with the police or cyber cell – Report such incidents immediately to your nearest cybercrime cell.
- Report to PIB Fact Check – Send any suspicious information to PIB Fact Check.
How to identify fake messages or scams?
- Messages mentioning government officials but lacking verifiable information.
- Use of words like URGENT or LIMITED TIME OFFER.
- Demanding money upfront.
- Suspicious or unprofessional phone numbers or emails.
