Introduction
In that time, where technology has made our lives easier, there are many different types of scams to see and hear that normal people can't imagine. Similarly, some of these kinds of scams are also happening in Pakistan, in the name of free "SIMs" and fake "Ration" scheme.
Poor people are very stressed due to rising inflation. When they see those kinds of free offers, they want to get these offers. Scammers know that weakness very well and take advantage of this.
How does this scam work?
You might have often seen in the market or on street corners that some people are sitting on chairs, with SIMS kept on tables in front of them, and giving free SIM offers with free Internet and Balance.
On the other hand, you see, a van has parked, or a camp is placed, and free rations are being distributed. But wait, did you think about why they want to give you a free SIM or free ration? These types of people can steal your identity and fingerprint.
How do they steal your Identity or Fingerprint?
When you go there to get a free SIM or a free ration, they ask for your CNIC to get your information. The staff of the people who distribute free rations claim that this scheme is from the government, and if you want to get it, you need to submit a copy of your CNIC.
While free SIM agents claim to be agents of popular franchises like Zong, Telenor, Jazz, and Ufone, they not only take your CNIC, but also give you a Biometric device to take your fingerprint. When you put a thumb on the device to get a new SIM, they say signal issue, network busy, or fingerprint not scanned.
Apply a thumb again, and you applied a thumb again and again, even 3 to 4 times in innocence. That's the point you don't understand, they copy your fingerprint, and so on, you fall into their trap.
How scammers copy your Fingerprint?
By nature, we have some oil and moisture in our fingers. When we touch a clean surface, our print is left there. The scammer applied transparent tape or a silicone sheet to the glass of the scanner device.
When someone places a thumb on the glass, the oil of your pore and the mark of your finger are transferred to the tape. After you leave, they remove the sheet or tape and copy your fingerprint.
Why do scammers steal your Identity and Fingerprint?
People take it for granted and say what happens if someone steals our sensitive information. But they don't know how scammers misuse your information, and it will destroy your life. Let's explore it.
1. Selling on the Black Market:
- The internet has a dark world, and it's called "Black Market" or "Dark Web".
- Over there, your collected data is sold to register and verify fake accounts for illegal or criminal activities.
2. For Crime:
- The SIMs registered fraudulently in your name are used in criminal activities like Kidnapping, Extortion, and Terrorism.
3. Online Banking:
- In Pakistan, many online branchless banking services (JazzCash, EasyPaisa, Sadapay, Nayapay, etc.) are available. Scammers can log in to these banking apps and empty your account.
- Also, if your bank account is biometric-enabled, then they can withdraw your money through ATMs.
4. Money Laundering:
- They open digital banking accounts in your name to receive black money.
Note:
Let's think about it. When the Police and FIA trace that criminal activity, then they will come to your home, and you will be unable to prove that you're not guilty. Because those accounts and SIMs were registered in your name by fraud.
How can you save from this scam?
If you want to save yourself and your family from this fraud, follow the steps below:
- Never take a SIM from unauthorized roadside agents. Always go to the franchise and get from them.
- When you see a group distributing free rations using the name of the government, you must visit official sites to confirm that they launched any free ration scheme.
- If you use a biometric device, check it properly to ensure that no transparent sheet or tape is attached to the glass.
- Every 2 months, check how many registered SIMs are on your CNIC by visiting this site https://cnic.SIMs.pk/ or sms CNIC number to 668. If any extra SIMs are found, block them immediately.
- If you have any doubts that your identity was stolen, then complain about it immediately on the FIA Wing https://complaint.fia.gov.pk/.
Conclusion:
Never go to untrusted free offers, your identity is the most important thing, don't give it to any scammers in the sake of free ration or a free SIM. This will get you into big trouble and ruin your life.
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