DoT to use a different method to check mobile balance and IMEI, starts April 15

According to an official directive, the Department of Telecom (DoT) has requested that telecom providers switch to alternate ways in order to deactivate USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data)-based call forwarding, known as *401# services, effective from April 15. Users of mobile devices can access USSD service by simply calling any active code shown on their phones. Among other things, IMEI numbers and cell phone balance checks are frequent uses of the service. The directive was issued with the intention of monitoring online fraud and crimes involving mobile devices.

The DoT emphasized on the necessity to tackle fraudulent practices exploiting the USSD-based service and instructed the discontinuation of this service until further notice. "It has been decided by the competent authority that all licensees shall discontinue the existing USSD-based call forwarding services with effect from 15.04.2024 until further notice," reads the notice dated March 28.

The move aims to safeguard mobile users from falling victim to fraudulent schemes that compromise their personal data and financial security.

By dialling specific codes on keypads, users can access various phone services through USSD. The most common use of USSD is checking prepaid balance or retrieving phone's IMEI number. However, it was also possible to activate call forwarding through USSD codes, making it a convenient option for many users. However, scammers have been using this service for illicit activities, prompting regulatory action from the DoT to protect consumers from potential harm.

The DoT has identified vulnerabilities in the current USSD system that fraudsters have exploited. These scams typically involve tricking users into activating call forwarding to a different number, allowing the scammer to intercept incoming calls and potentially steal confidential information like one-time passwords (OTPs) used for financial transactions.

By deactivating USSD-based call forwarding services, the DoT intends to mitigate the risks associated with unauthorised call redirection and subsequent exploitation of sensitive information.