In a critical advisory, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), India’s state-run telecom operator, has issued a stark warning regarding fraudulent schemes involving fake mobile tower installation offers. With scammers increasingly targeting unsuspecting individuals by promising lucrative earnings, BSNL’s alert comes as a necessary measure to prevent customers from falling victim to these scams. If you’ve ever considered earning money by allowing a telecom tower to be installed on your property, this alert is a must-read.
‘Tower Installation’ Scam: Fake Website Alert
A fraudulent website, https://bsnltowersite.in/, has been falsely claiming to represent BSNL. The scam promises monthly payments between ₹25,000 and ₹50,000 in exchange for installing mobile towers on rooftops in rural, semi-urban, and urban areas.
However, BSNL has clarified that this website has no affiliation with the company. Instead, it is a scam designed to collect personal and financial information from unsuspecting individuals eager to earn money through tower installations.
BSNL’s Official Warning
BSNL took to social media to issue a public alert about the fraudulent website. The company highlighted how the website is misleading people by making false promises and urged customers to ignore any such offers. To help users stay vigilant, BSNL even shared a screenshot of the fake website, enabling customers to recognize and avoid it.
The telecom giant reiterated that it does not engage with third-party websites for tower installations and advised users to contact the company directly for legitimate inquiries.
BSNL’s Policy on Tower Installations
Telecom companies do pay monthly rent to property owners for installing towers, but this process is handled directly by the company, not through unverified websites. BSNL confirmed that it does not make unrealistic payment claims and urged users to report any suspicious offers.
For any genuine tower installation inquiries, customers should reach out to BSNL via official communication channels.
How to Protect Yourself from Tower Installation Scams
Here are some key steps to safeguard yourself from such scams:
- Verify Offers with Official Sources:
Always cross-check any offers or messages regarding tower installations with BSNL’s official customer service before taking any action. - Avoid Sharing Personal Information:
Never share sensitive personal or financial information on unverified websites or with unknown entities promising quick earnings. - Report Suspicious Websites:
If you come across a suspicious website or receive dubious messages about tower installations, report them to BSNL or cybercrime authorities. - Stay Informed:
Regularly follow BSNL’s official updates on social media and their website to stay informed about potential scams and fraudulent activities.