If your mobile SIM suddenly stops working and you stop receiving calls or messages, do not ignore it. It could be a sign of a SIM-related cyber fraud. A similar case has been reported from Chidgaon in Shimla district, where an elderly man allegedly lost ₹11.04 lakh through unauthorised UPI transactions.
According to the police, the victim has a UCO Bank account in Chidgaon. Between September 5 and 18, 2026, as many as 33 unauthorised UPI transactions were carried out from his account, transferring a total of ₹11,04,799.61 to other bank accounts.
SIM stopped working before the fraud
The elderly complainant told police that he had not made any of the transactions and had not authorised anyone else to operate his account.
He said his SIM suddenly stopped working on September 5. After that, he could neither receive calls nor messages on his phone. He later contacted the bank and learned that a large amount had been withdrawn or transferred from his account.
Shimla SSP Gaurav Singh said a case has been registered against unidentified persons under relevant provisions of the BNS. Police are investigating the unauthorised transactions, the SIM-related circumstances and the bank accounts to which the money was transferred.
How can SIM-related fraud happen?
In SIM-related fraud, criminals may try to gain control of a victim's mobile number through methods such as SIM duplication or unauthorised SIM replacement. Once they gain access to the number, they may attempt to intercept OTPs or reset banking credentials.
What should you do if your SIM suddenly stops working?
Cyber expert Ajay advised people to immediately contact their telecom service provider if their SIM stops working without explanation. They should also inform their bank and consider temporarily blocking online transactions and debit or credit cards.
People should also report suspected financial cyber fraud immediately by calling the 1930 cybercrime helpline.
Experts also advise people to share identity documents only when necessary and avoid giving personal information to unknown persons.
