The cellphone fraud mode is getting more creative, these are tips for IT experts untag
JATIM.LIDAHTEKNO, SURABAYA – Information technology expert from UNTAG Surabaya, Supangat, Ph.D., ITIL, COBIT, CLA, Cisa gave a warning to the public about increasing the creativity of fraudulent perpetrators in carrying out their actions. He emphasized the importance of caution against various modes of digital fraud that are now rife through cellular phone numbers, either via WhatsApp or SMS.
According to Supangat, the perpetrators often take advantage of psychological pressure so that the victim feels panicked and makes decisions without thinking. “The mode of fraud through cellphone numbers is now more creative. Usually the perpetrators deliberately create a situation as if they are emergency so that the victim immediately responds without checking first,” he said.
He emphasized that the public needs to understand preventive measures so that they are not easy to become victims of digital crime. One way that can be done is to not carelessly click on links or download files from unknown numbers. “Never download an APK file format or click on a link sent by a foreign number. It could contain malicious applications that steal personal data,” he explained.
In addition, the public is also advised to use the phone number identity tracker application to determine whether the number has been reported as a fraud. Some applications that can be used include GetContact and Truecaller. “If the number has been marked as a fraud, it should be blocked immediately,” added Supangat.
He also reminded the public not to immediately believe if there is a message claiming to come from a friend or family who is in an emergency. The safest way is to verify directly by calling the original number of the person concerned or his closest relative. “Turn off the phone first, then call the original number of the friend or family. Don’t immediately believe the message that comes from the new number,” he explained.
Supangat added that the public must also maintain the confidentiality of personal data, especially the OTP code, PIN, and password. According to him, official institutions such as banks or marketplaces have never asked for the confidential data through short messages. “If someone asks for an OTP code, PIN, or password via message, it’s almost definitely a fraud,” he said.
He hopes that the public will be more digital security literate so that they can avoid various modes of fraud that continue to grow. With high awareness, people will be more vigilant and able to recognize signs of fraud, and take appropriate preventive measures.
