Chakshu Fraud Report: How to Flag a Scam Call or SMS

A Chakshu fraud report is the quickest way to tell the Department of Telecommunications about a suspicious call, SMS or WhatsApp message. Chakshu is part of the government’s Sanchar Saathi portal and app, and it is free to use.

What a Chakshu fraud report is for

According to the Sanchar Saathi portal, Chakshu handles suspected fraud communication. Reports help DoT stop the misuse of telecom resources. It does not handle financial fraud or cyber crime complaints.

So the split is simple. Use Chakshu when a call or message looks like a scam and you want the number acted on. If you have already lost money, call 1930 or file at cybercrime.gov.in first, as we explain in our guide to the cyber fraud golden hour.

Steps to file a report on the portal

The portal lists a short process. First, visit sancharsaathi.gov.in and open Citizen Centric Services. Then choose Chakshu, Report Suspected Fraud Communication. Next, follow these steps:

1. Select the medium: call, SMS, WhatsApp message or WhatsApp call.
2. Pick the category that fits best.
3. Enter the details. A screenshot is optional but useful.
4. Verify your mobile number with an OTP and enter your name.
5. Submit the request.

You can also file the same report through the Sanchar Saathi mobile app. It is available on Google Play and the App Store. The sender’s mobile or landline number must be visible, so a hidden number cannot be reported this way.

Categories you can choose

The portal offers a clear list, so pick the closest match. The categories include investment and trading scams, impersonation of DoT or TRAI, and impersonation of police, CBI, customs, Aadhaar or RBI. Others cover impersonating a relative or friend, KYC and payment issues tied to banks, electricity, gas or insurance, and fake customer care numbers.

There are also options for online job, gift, lottery and loan offers, robocalls, sextortion and suspected links or websites. A catch all option exists for anything else.

What happens after you report

After verifying a report, DoT may act against the sender. Actions can include reverification, disconnection and police complaints or FIRs. However, DoT does not guarantee action on every report, so do not wait for a reply before protecting yourself.

Your identity is kept confidential, according to DoT. Be careful, though, because non genuine reports can lead to reverification or blocking of the reporting subscriber. Report only what you truly received.

Common mistakes to avoid

The first mistake is skipping the screenshot. It is optional, but it gives DoT context. Another is using Chakshu after a payment fraud. In that case, time matters, so the 1930 helpline is the right call.

Also, do not click links in the suspicious message while collecting details. Copy the number, take a screenshot and block the sender afterwards. While you are on Sanchar Saathi, you can also use it to check mobile connections in your name.

Keep yourself safe while you report

Reporting is only one part of staying safe. Never share an OTP, a PIN or a card number with a caller, even if they claim to represent a bank or a government office. Instead, hang up and call the official number printed on your card or on the organisation’s website. Then file the report once you are calm. A clear screenshot and the exact time of the call make your report more useful.

FAQ

Is the Chakshu fraud report free?

Yes. Chakshu is a Sanchar Saathi service from the Department of Telecommunications. You file it on the portal or the app with an OTP check on your own number.

Can I report a WhatsApp scam on Chakshu?

Yes. You can report WhatsApp messages and WhatsApp calls, as long as the sender’s mobile or landline number is visible.

What if I already lost money to the scam?

Chakshu does not handle financial fraud. Call the cyber crime helpline 1930 or file a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in as soon as possible.