Tamil Nadu police alert: Watch out for USSD call-forwarding scam
Tamil Nadu Cyber Crime Wing is warning everyone about a sneaky new scam.
Fraudsters pretend to be delivery agents, call you about a fake parcel, and then text you a USSD code (like 21 plus their number).
If you dial it, all your calls—including bank OTPs—get forwarded straight to them.
This lets scammers access your accounts and even hijack your WhatsApp or Telegram.
How to stay safe (and what to do if tricked)
In a recent advisory, ADG Sandeep Mittal urged people not to dial any USSD codes like 21, 61, or 67 from unknown callers and avoid clicking on sketchy delivery links. Always check deliveries through official courier websites or helplines.
If you think you've set up call forwarding by mistake, cancel it right away by dialing ##002# and check status with *#21#.
If you've been scammed, report it ASAP at the National Cyber Crime Helpline (1930) or cybercrime.gov.in.
Stay sharp—share this with friends and family!