Do not answer suspicious calls from foreign numbers — DXX

The State Security Service of the Republic of Uzbekistan has called on citizens to be vigilant against the increasing cases of cyber fraud.

 

It has been reported that the number of suspicious calls being made from abroad to the phone numbers of Uzbek citizens has increased. According to expert analysis, such calls are not made via regular telephone connections but through the internet and special software. This allows fraudsters to hide their real number and display a fake number belonging to any country on the phone screen.

 

It is noted that because the calls are sent via the internet and the numbers are spoofed in advance, it becomes difficult for mobile operators to identify the source of the call. Such numbers do not exist in special databases and are considered temporary, spoofed numbers.

 

According to the SSS, this type of call poses a number of risks. For instance, calling back foreign numbers can result in funds being withdrawn from the subscriber's balance. Furthermore, fraudsters introduce themselves as employees of various organizations and attempt to obtain citizens' personal information and bank card codes.

 

In addition, answering a call indicates that the number is "active," which can lead to an increase in fraud attempts in the future. In some cases, the subscriber's voice may be recorded and later used, manipulated with artificial intelligence, to deceive their relatives.

 

The SSS recommended that citizens not answer calls from unfamiliar and suspicious foreign numbers, not call them back, block such numbers, and not disclose personal information to strangers.