Operation Ghost SIM: The Rising Threat of Fake SIM Cards and How to Report Them

Byadmin

In recent times, the misuse of SIM cards has become a big problem in India. Fake SIM cards are being used not just for scams, but also for spying and sharing sensitive information. Some of these fake SIMs are linked to activities outside India, which makes this issue even more serious.

To stop this, the government started a special drive called Operation Ghost SIM. This operation has exposed how fake SIM cards are being used across the country using false documents. People often don’t even know that a SIM card has been issued in their name.

Thankfully, people now have a place to report such frauds quickly. The Portal Chakshu is a government website where you can report suspicious calls, fake SIM activity, and fraud messages safely and easily.

What Is a Ghost SIM?

A “Ghost SIM” is a SIM card that has been issued using fake or stolen documents. Many times, the documents belong to real people, but they have no idea that their ID has been misused.

These SIM cards are then used for illegal activities, such as:

  • Sending messages through WhatsApp to collect or spread secret information.
  • Making calls for scams or blackmail.
  • Running fake jobs or bank scams.
  • Contacting people for spying and gathering personal or government-related data.

Operation Ghost SIM: What It Found

The term Operation Ghost SIM refers to a recent crackdown by police and security agencies across states like Assam, Rajasthan, and Telangana. Investigations found that:

  • Thousands of SIM cards had been issued on fake IDs.
  • Many of these SIMs were linked to WhatsApp accounts with foreign numbers.
  • Some SIMs were used for spying activities and sending sensitive information across borders.
  • Innocent people were shocked to find their documents had been used without their permission.

These frauds are serious and can affect anyone. This is not just a digital scam but also a national security concern.

How These SIMs Are Issued?

Here’s how fraudsters usually get these fake SIMs:

  • They collect copies of Aadhaar cards and other documents from people through fake job offers, lucky draws, or by pretending to be from service providers.
  • They use these documents to issue multiple SIM cards without the person’s knowledge.
  • Some telecom agents may also be involved and issue SIMs without proper verification.

Once active, these SIM cards are sold or given to people who use them for illegal purposes.

Signs That a SIM Card Might Be Fraudulent

There are a few signs that can help you identify if a SIM card is being misused:

  • You get a bill or notification for a number you never used.
  • You receive messages meant for someone else on your phone number.
  • Your phone number suddenly stops working (could be SIM swap fraud).
  • You are contacted by police or officials about activity you didn’t do.

If you notice anything like this, act fast. You can report it easily through Portal Chakshu.

How to Use Portal Chakshu to Report SIM Frauds?

Portal Chakshu is a safe and free platform launched by the Department of Telecommunications. You can report any suspicious calls, messages, or SIM-related issues there.

Step-by-Step Process:

Step 1: Visit Portal Chakshu using your mobile or computer.

Step 2: Click on “Report Suspected Fraud Communication.”

Step 3: Enter the required details such as:

  • Phone number or WhatsApp number from which the message or call came.

  • Type of message – SMS, call, or WhatsApp.

  • A short description of the message or call.

  • Date and time you received it.

Step 4: Submit the report.

You do not need to create an account or login. The process is simple and takes only a few minutes.

What Happens After You Report?

When you report a suspicious number or SIM activity on Portal Chakshu, the details are reviewed by telecom and security officials. If the number is found to be fake or linked to criminal activity, it may be blocked or investigated further.

The more people report, the faster the authorities can act. Your one report might prevent someone else from being tricked.

How to Check If a SIM Is Issued in Your Name?

You can ask your mobile operator for a list of active SIMs linked to your ID. This helps you make sure there are no numbers running in your name without your knowledge. If you find any unknown numbers:

  • Ask the telecom provider to block them.
  • Report the issue on Portal Chakshu.
  • Keep a copy of your complaint for future reference.

How to Stay Safe

  • Don’t share photocopies of your Aadhaar or ID without a valid reason.
  • Cross out unnecessary details before handing over documents.
  • Don’t click on links in strange messages or WhatsApp forwards.
  • Use strong passwords and enable app locks on your phone.
  • Educate family members, especially elders and students, about such frauds.

Final Words

The misuse of SIM cards is not just a digital scam anymore — it’s a threat to national security. Whether it’s to scam someone or send messages to the wrong hands, fake SIMs can do serious harm.

It is important for all of us to stay alert and act quickly when something seems wrong. The government has given us Portal Chakshu to make reporting easy. Use it to report frauds and protect yourself and others.

Let’s all do our part in making sure that no one misuses our identity and that our country stays safe from such hidden threats.

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