As mobile networks continue to expand their 5G services across many countries, cybercriminals are exploiting the excitement surrounding the technology to deceive unsuspecting users. A viral public notice circulating on social media warns of a scam in which fraudsters pretend to be representatives of mobile network operators and ask customers to “upgrade” their SIM cards from 4G to 5G.
While the image itself carries a “FAKE NEWS” watermark and should not be treated as an official EFCC announcement, the underlying warning reflects a genuine cybersecurity threat: never share your One-Time Password (OTP) with anyone.
How the Scam Works
The fraud typically follows these steps:
- A scammer calls you pretending to be from your mobile network provider.
- They claim your SIM card must be upgraded from 4G to 5G.
- They request that you read out an OTP sent to your phone.
- Once they obtain the OTP, they may attempt to access your mobile account, banking apps, or other services linked to your phone number.
This type of attack is commonly known as social engineering, where criminals manipulate people into voluntarily giving away sensitive information.
Why Your OTP Is Important
An OTP is a security code designed to verify that you are the legitimate owner of an account. It is one of the strongest protections against unauthorized access.
Sharing your OTP is like handing over the keys to your digital life. With it, criminals may be able to:
- Access your mobile account.
- Reset passwords.
- Hijack your phone number through SIM-related fraud.
- Gain access to banking or financial services.
- Steal money or sensitive personal information.
How to Protect Yourself
To stay safe:
- Never share your OTP with anyone, regardless of who they claim to be.
- Remember that legitimate telecom operators and banks will never ask for your OTP over the phone.
- If you receive a suspicious call, hang up immediately.
- Contact your mobile network provider using their official customer service number if you have concerns.
- Enable additional security features such as two-factor authentication where available.
- Report suspected scams to your telecom provider and the relevant cybercrime authorities in your country.
A Word of Caution About Viral Posts
Social media is filled with well-intentioned warnings, but not all are authentic. Before sharing official-looking notices, verify whether they come directly from the relevant government agency or organization.
Even if a particular poster is fake or altered, the cybersecurity advice it contains may still be valid. In this case, the central message remains an important one:
Never disclose your One-Time Password (OTP) to anyone.
Moment of Wisdom
Technology makes life easier, but it also creates new opportunities for criminals. Cybersecurity is not only about having sophisticated software—it begins with informed users who know how to recognize scams.
Protect your identity. Protect your money. Protect your future. Never share your OTP.
Time for Wisdom.
