The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has recently taken a step to tackle the surge in online fraud cases across the country. To counter various incidents of fraud resulting from illegal call forwarding, the authorities have required all telecom operators in the country to allow their USSD-based call forwarding services to be deactivated from April 15, 2024.
In other words, USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) is a technology that makes it possible for mobile users to gain access to a wide variety of services provided by phone networks by dialling shortcodes such as *401#. Criminals impersonate customer support to trick users into dialing this code followed by their number and into being tricked by them.
As a result, the fraudster will usually be able to receive all phone calls and forward them to him. The USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) is commonly used by users to check balances, block numbers, and other information with the option of dialling simple codes. As a result, such social engineering attacks are vulnerable to this particular system by the DoT.
Several services can assist users with this, including call forwarding, as well as phone number rerouting. In addition to checking mobile phone balances and IMEI numbers, the service is also commonly used to check the health of mobile phones. An order has been issued as a result of an ongoing investigation into frauds involving mobile phones and online crimes that have been committed.
In making this decision, they do so in response to a rising number of concerns about fraud, and misuse, as well as the increasing number of online scams occurring in the wake of the call forwarding feature. Once users suspend the service for their number, users will need to reactivate any call forwarding that has been set up on it. If they already have it enabled, they will have to reactivate it.
There have been rumours, however, that users may have to use alternative methods of activating call forwarding, which has yet to be specified, to perform this functionality. The traditional ways for users to manage the forwarding of their calls will now need to be replaced by alternative ways for providers to do so.
The suspension of USSD-based call forwarding services comes amid concerns about the susceptibility of such services to fraudulent activities within the telecommunications sector.
While the request does not imply a permanent removal of the service, there are speculations that it may be reintroduced in the future with enhanced security measures to prevent misuse and fraud.
Telecommunications fraud often involves cybercriminals exploiting vulnerabilities within call forwarding systems to unlawfully access sensitive information.
One prevalent tactic utilized by fraudsters involves persuading unsuspecting users to enable call forwarding to alternative phone numbers via USSD commands. Once activated, these diverted calls serve as a conduit for intercepting confidential data, such as one-time passwords (OTPs), intended for authentication purposes.
The USSD service, accessed by inputting specific codes on mobile keypads, offers various functionalities including prepaid balance checks and IMEI retrieval. Among these functions is the activation of unconditional call forwarding, a feature now under scrutiny due to reported instances of misuse.
The DoT's directive to deactivate USSD-based call forwarding represents a proactive measure aimed at disrupting fraudulent schemes. By eliminating this option, telecom operators can thwart fraudsters from exploiting the feature for illicit activities. This action not only protects mobile phone users but also bolsters the integrity of the telecommunications infrastructure.
In summary, the mandated suspension of USSD-based call forwarding services marks a significant stride in combating fraudulent practices in the telecommunications realm. By depriving fraudsters of a crucial tool, the DoT's initiative contributes to the advancement of cybersecurity and fosters a safer digital landscape for both consumers and businesses.