DTH and Set-Top Box KYC Recharge Scam over the phone

How it looks over the phone, the red flags and what to do.

On a call the pressure is live: no time to read, no time to check, and a rule that you must not tell anyone. DTH and Set-Top Box KYC Recharge Scam is one of the ways this shows up: A call or SMS says your DTH channels will stop unless KYC is updated or a recharge is done through a link, then takes card and UPI details.

What dth and set-top box kyc recharge scam looks like over the phone

• Instructions to install a screen-sharing app or to press keys on the phone.
• A second "senior officer" who takes over the call.
• An unknown or international number, or a number that looks like a real office.

The scammer names a major DTH or cable provider and sends the message to many numbers. Some people also find fake customer care numbers while searching online during a real recharge problem. The message says the box serial number needs KYC, or that a mandatory update is due, and that failing to do it will end service today.

Red flags to check on the phone call

• It says your channels will stop tonight.
• It asks for a small recharge through a link or a collect request.
• A caller asks you to enter your UPI PIN.
• A helpline number is given in the text or found in search.
• The caller wants you to install an app to "fix" something.
• The caller asks for an OTP, UPI PIN, card PIN or CVV.

What to do

1. Do not open the link or call the number in the message.
2. Check your subscription in the provider's official app or with the number printed on your bill.
3. Recharge only inside the official app or on the official site you type yourself.
4. Never share an OTP or PIN. No genuine staff member needs it.
5. If you already installed an app on the call, uninstall it and switch on airplane mode, then call your bank at once.
6. Tell a family member and report the number on the Sanchar Saathi portal (Chakshu facility).

Report the number on the Sanchar Saathi portal (Chakshu facility). If money moved, call 1930 immediately.

If money or a code is already gone

1. Call 1930 immediately if money has left your account.
2. Ask your bank through the number on your card to block cards and UPI if you shared details.
3. Uninstall any support app and change passwords from a clean device.
4. File a complaint on cybercrime.gov.in with the message and call time.

National Cyber Crime Helpline: 1930; report at cybercrime.gov.in.

Safeavio Sentinel's scam check reads the pasted text and explains the pressure it finds, such as a same-night deadline, a tiny recharge and a request for a PIN. The link check shows lookalike or shortened addresses before you open them, and Money Shield reminds you that you never need a PIN to receive money. It cannot tell if a helpline number is real. Always use your provider's official app or bill details.

Full guide: DTH and Set-Top Box KYC Recharge Scam: how it works, signs and what to do. Other channels: SMS, WhatsApp.

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