Beware! Fake BTS Scam Modus is Lurking – Here’s How to Avoid It

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 10:38 | Cyber Security | Editorial INTI

Jakarta, INTI – Minister of Communication and Digital (Komdigi) Meutya Hafid urges the public to be more cautious of suspicious text messages that could be part of a scam using Fake BTS technology. This technology is exploited by cybercriminals to intercept genuine 4G Base Transceiver Station (BTS) signals and downgrade them to 2G. By doing so, perpetrators can send SMS messages that appear to come from trusted institutions but are actually designed to steal victims’ personal data.

How Does Fake BTS Work?

Fake BTS operates by replacing genuine cellular signals with manipulated fake signals. In a 2G network environment, which is more vulnerable to attacks, scammers can send messages containing malicious links or requests for sensitive information. These messages often pose as communications from financial institutions, public service providers, or even government agencies to trick victims into providing personal data such as bank account numbers, passwords, or OTP codes.

Cases and Law Enforcement Actions

The Indonesian National Police’s Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim Polri) has successfully arrested two foreign nationals suspected of using Fake BTS technology for cyber fraud. However, investigations are still ongoing to uncover a broader criminal network.

The government, through the Ministry of Communication and Digital, continues to collaborate with various stakeholders to enhance cybersecurity measures against these threats. Law enforcement efforts against digital crime remain a priority to minimize risks for the public.

The Importance of Public Cooperation in Preventing Scams

Minister Meutya Hafid emphasizes the need for collaboration between the public, mobile operators, and the banking sector to report suspicious activities. This proactive approach is crucial in identifying and addressing scam attempts swiftly.

Here are some precautionary steps the public can take to avoid Fake BTS scams:

Do not easily trust SMS messages requesting personal information, especially from unknown numbers.
Verify any received information by directly contacting the relevant institution through official channels.
Avoid clicking on suspicious links sent via SMS.
Report suspicious SMS messages to mobile operators or relevant authorities for further action.
Use security applications and enable two-factor authentication to protect financial accounts and personal data.

Conclusion

As digital crime becomes increasingly sophisticated, vigilance and digital literacy are essential in protecting oneself from cyber fraud. The Fake BTS scam is one of the deceptive tactics that can easily mislead the public. Therefore, collaboration between the government, mobile operators, and the community is vital in preventing and tackling this crime. By staying alert and following the recommended preventive measures, individuals can better safeguard themselves from the ever-evolving threats of digital fraud.