Beware of Aadhaar card, mobile phone related fraud; here is how to stop it; just go to this website

In order to prevent Aadhaar-based fraud, users can make use of the government-run Telecom Analytics for Fraud Management & Consumer Protection (TAFCOP) system to protect their smartphones.

An Aadhaar card is required for almost every kind of service these days. (Vipin Kumar/Hindustan Times)

Aadhaar card-based fraud is something that each individual should be aware of. Not just that, action should be taken immediately to ensure the owner of this important ID does not suffer any loss at the hands of criminals who are always looking at targetting those who are not fully aware of how the Aadhaar card works. Helping the Aadhaar cardholders in this regard is the government-run Telecom Analytics for Fraud Management & Consumer Protection (TAFCOP). Its motto itself gives an insight into the job it does - 'Empowering Consumers Strengthening Security'. Here we show how Aadhaar Card and mobile phone fraud happens and how it can be avoided.

Aadhaar card mobile phone connection

Whenever anyone has to get a new SIM, the telecom company concerned asks for a number of documents and the Aadhaar card is the most important document. So, in case a fraudster has acquired your credentials and used them somehow to get a connection, it will show up against your name.

Aadhaar card requirement

An Aadhaar card is required for almost every kind of service these days. These can be government services or services provided by private players. Having an Aadhaar card has become critical in every way. Because of this, it has also become a target of fraudsters.

How TAFCOP will help

Notably, to avoid fraud, Aadhaar cardholders can themselves do something about it. They can actually take steps and find out how many phone numbers are registered in their name. If there are certain numbers that are questionable and are connected to the Aadhaar ID, then immediate action is warranted.

Helping you do exactly that is TAFCOP.

This Aadhaar card feature will tell you how many phone numbers are registered against your ID

All you have to do is go to the TAFCOP website (https://tafcop.dgtelecom.gov.in) and in the box there, type in your number and follow the process completely, including the one that asks for an OTP validation.

TAFCOP will then show you how many mobile phone numbers are linked to your Aadhaar card. Further action can be taken if some numbers are found that are questionable.

Do note, however, that this feature is available only in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, but it will eventually be rolled out across the country.