The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued a warning against the misuse of telecom resources, stressing penalties under the Telecommunications Act of 2023. The Act targets fraud, including SIM card tampering and identifier spoofing, with severe legal consequences.

The misuse of telecom resources, such as altering or spoofing IP addresses, IMEI numbers, SMS headers, and mobile numbers, has been strongly warned against by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). The Telecommunications Act of 2023, which stipulates severe penalties for violators, is violated by such actions, the DoT stressed.

Growing Threat of Department of Telecommunications Fraud

Telecom resources are increasingly being used by scammers for financial fraud and cybercrime. Illicitly obtained Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards and SMS headers have been used by criminals to transmit large quantities of bogus texts. To help hackers, some people also purchase SIM cards in their names and provide them to others, frequently without realizing it.

SIM cards obtained through fraud, impersonation, or forged documents have also been reported. In certain cases, Points of Sale (PoS), which are in charge of issuing SIM cards, have allowed these unlawful purchases, thereby aiding and abetting the crime.

Tampering with Telecom Identifiers: A Serious Crime

Cybercriminals have also been seen changing telecommunication identifiers, such as the Calling Line Identity (CLI), sometimes referred to as a phone number, using mobile apps and other tools. Other crucial telecom identifiers, like IP addresses, IMEI numbers, and SMS headers, have also been changed to deliver fake messages and evade detection.

Department of Telecommunications Act of 2023: Strict Legal Provisions

The Telecommunications Act of 2023 imposes harsh penalties for offences related to telecommunications:

• Tampering with telecommunication identifiers is prohibited by Section 42(3)(c).
• Section 42(3)(e): Makes it illegal to obtain SIM cards or other telecom identifiers by deception, fraud, or impersonation.
• Section 42(7) overrides the 1973 Code of Criminal Procedure by declaring certain offences to be cognizable and non-bailable.
• Penalties: Violators may be fined up to Rs 50 lakh, imprisoned for up to three years, or both.
• Section 42(6): Those who aid or abet such offences face similar punishments.

DoT’s Commitment to a Secure Telecom Ecosystem

The Department of Telecommunications ( DoT ) reiterated its dedication to stopping telecom fraud through the use of cutting-edge security measures and guidelines. The department warned of harsh penalties for violators under the Department of Telecommunications Act of 2023 and asked citizens to be on guard.

A safe and secure telecom ecosystem for all users is the goal of the strict legal framework, which also attempts to discourage fraudulent operations.