Kaspersky warns mobile‑data buyers about scammers posing as telecoms operators

ISLAMABAD: At the height of the tourist season, demand for communications and mobile internet services rises sharply. Kaspersky’s security experts have uncovered scams that target anyone purchasing mobile connections or SIM cards worldwide.

Fraudsters create counterfeit websites that look like the portals of major regional and international telecom providers to trick users into revealing their phone numbers, personal details or banking information.

Kaspersky uncovered several examples of these fake login pages that mimic legitimate telecom operator sites and giving recommendations on how not to be deceived.

In the first case, scammers exploit the brand name of an international telecommunications company operating services in Asia, Africa and Europe.

Fake authentication pages encourage users to put in their phone number and credentials. While the first example shows the different design, the second scam site closely mimics the original log in page, making it hard for users to tell the difference and spot a fake.

Entering authentication or payment data on fraudulent web sites may result in money or data loss and become a reason for more frequent spam and fraudulent calls.

Another example is a scam page which poses as another international communications company, working in North Africa, the Middle East and Southeast Asia.

In this scheme scammers encourage users to top up their mobile data/internet plans by entering their personal information and bank cards details.

Kaspersky experts have also identified a scam when cyber criminals suggest users enter their personal data to check and pay a bill inquiry. Such scam schemes are usually aimed at gaining victims’ personal data for further fraud or account hacking and stealing money.

Example of a phishing page

“Because of the active use of AI, scammers can now create fake pages with ever increasing accuracy and speed, targeting the most popular user interest areas.

We constantly see scams revolving around sports events, music concerts, seasonal sales and holidays. Unfortunately, the telecoms industry is no exception. To keep your data and money safe, be vigilant when purchasing mobile or internet plans online.

Using an eSIM – purchased through an official app – is one way to avoid fake telecom sites, as it eliminates the need to enter personal details on questionable web pages. If you’re unsure about a site’s legitimacy, search for the brand name directly in a search engine and enable a security solution that blocks phishing links for you,” comments Tatyana Kulikova, cybersecurity expert at Kaspersky.

Kaspersky shares some tips on how to purchase mobile and internet data plans more securely. Double-check websites before filling out any information.

Look for misspellings, extra characters or a different domain. Do not trust any links or attachments received by mail. Double-check the sender before opening anything.

Consider buying an eSIM for internet connection abroad via Kaspersky eSIM Store. Digital SIMs can be activated through official apps without the need to buy physical SIM cards.

Use a security solution with strong anti-phishing component. Kaspersky Premium protects users from fraudulent online stores through advanced detection technology that analyzes website characteristics and URLs to identify suspicious patterns.

For its outstanding fake shops detection capabilities and excellent performance in AV-Comparatives Fake Shops Detection certification in 2025, Kaspersky Premium was awarded an “Approved” certificate, making it the perfect choice for confident online shopping.