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Scam explainer
KYC update, SIM swap and eSIM fraud also called KYC expiry scam, SIM swap fraud, eSIM hijack, SIM block message scam
Messages warn your bank account or SIM will be blocked unless you update KYC, or a fake telecom agent gets your number moved to an eSIM, letting fraudsters receive your OTPs.
How it works
- An SMS, WhatsApp message or call says your bank KYC has expired or your SIM will be blocked today.
- You are sent a link or asked to share details or an OTP to 'update' KYC, or a caller posing as telecom support sends an 'eSIM activation' link or request.
- In the eSIM version, your physical SIM suddenly loses signal because your number now works on the fraudster's device.
- OTPs and bank alerts go to the fraudster, who drains accounts, breaks deposits or takes loans in your name.
Red flags
- KYC or SIM-block warnings that arrive with a link or a phone number to call.
- Any eSIM, SIM upgrade or porting request you did not start yourself.
- Your phone suddenly shows no network for no clear reason.
- Requests to share an OTP or forward an SMS to 'confirm' your identity.
What to do
- Update KYC only in your bank's branch, official app or website, and request an eSIM only through your telecom operator's official channels.
- If your signal drops unexpectedly, contact your telecom operator and your bank at once.
- If money is lost, call 1930 and file a complaint on cybercrime.gov.in.
- Check the mobile connections registered in your name on Sanchar Saathi and report ones you do not recognise.
- Report KYC and SIM-block messages through Chakshu on Sanchar Saathi.
Step-by-step guidePhone suddenly shows no service? What to do about SIM-swap and eSIM fraud in India
The numbers
I4C issued an advisory on eSIM fraud in 2025 (The Daily Jagran), and 2026 cases include a Mumbai woman who lost ₹11 lakh after an eSIM switch (India TV). There is no official national loss figure for SIM-swap or eSIM fraud.
- Chakshu reports of KYC and payment-related fraud communications (bank, electricity, gas, insurance) rose from 21,281 in 2024 to 1,06,483 in 2025, the largest named category, DoT told the Rajya Sabha. — PIB (DoT) — Chakshu facility of Sanchar Saathi: suspected fraud communications reported, Rajya Sabha reply (5 Feb 2026)
Desk coverage
- Aadhaar or PAN leaked in a data breach? How to lock it down and check for misuse
- Bank account frozen by cyber police? What to do if you received tainted money without knowing
- Phone suddenly shows no service? What to do about SIM-swap and eSIM fraud in India
- Data breach reporting in India: CERT-In's six-hour rule and the DPDP timeline explained
Sources
- The Daily Jagran — eSIM fraud rising in India, I4C issues warning: here's how to stay safe (1 Sep 2025)
- India TV — Mumbai woman loses Rs 11 lakh in minutes: how e-SIM fraud can empty your bank account (12 Feb 2026)
- PIB (DoT) — Chakshu facility of Sanchar Saathi: suspected fraud communications reported, Rajya Sabha reply (5 Feb 2026)
- DoT Sanchar Saathi — Chakshu: report suspected fraud communication