Home Ministry’s I4C warns citizens against call forwarding, WhatsApp account rent scams

AI-generated image for representation only. NEW DELHI: The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), under the Ministry of Home Affairs, on Tuesday issued several advisories to caution citizens against emerging cyber threats, which it said are leading to significant financial losses. As per the advisories, these threats include the misuse of matrimonial and dating platforms for investment and cryptocurrency frauds; USSD-based call forwarding scams through delivery or courier agent impersonation; and WhatsApp web account renting scams. The nodal agency for cybercrime prevention in India said its findings are based on analysis of complaints received on the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal. The I4C, so far, has proactively blocked 3,962 Skype IDs and 83,668 WhatsApp accounts linked to cyber frauds, the Centre said in an official statement in October 2025. Misuse of matrimonial platforms Fraudsters are exploiting Indian matrimonial platforms by creating fake profiles with stolen photos and high-status professions to appear credible. The agency found that these malicious actors specifically target high-income individuals using platform filters, quickly initiating contact to build emotional intimacy through frequent communication.Once trust is established, the scammers manufacture urgent crises or present “exclusive” crypto and investment opportunities, while leveraging the emotional bond to manipulate victims into transferring
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