Why border security force SSB is asking soldiers to stay away from unknown calls, OTP requests

The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) has warned its personnel against online honey traps, cyber fraud and financial scams, urging them to avoid sharing private photographs, verify suspicious communications and report fraudulent activity promptly, as per an ANI report. The border guarding force issued the advisory as part of its Cyber Security Awareness Week, which concluded a day before the warning was shared, highlighting how fraudsters exploit fake identities and emotional manipulation to obtain sensitive information and money.

The advisory also cautioned personnel against answering suspicious video calls, entertaining demands for money, clicking unverified links and installing Android Package Kit (APK) files from unknown sources. The force advised downloading applications only from trusted sources and verifying the authenticity of messages and requests before taking action.

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SSB cyber security advisory: Precautions against online honey traps

The force said cybercriminals often approach targets through fabricated identities and gradually build trust before exploiting their victims. Such tactics can expose personal, financial and other sensitive information, potentially leading to fraud or online exploitation.

The SSB advised its personnel to exercise caution when interacting with strangers online and avoid sharing private photographs or videos. It also warned against engaging with suspicious video calls or complying with requests for money from unknown individuals.

Personnel were urged to remain alert to unknown calls, fraudulent messages, suspicious links and QR codes. The force stressed that one-time passwords (OTPs), personal identification numbers (PINs), passwords and banking details must never be shared with others.

“Always verify before any transaction,” the advisory stated, asking personnel to establish the authenticity of communications and payment requests before proceeding.

What to do if you receive a suspicious message or call

The SSB urged personnel to pause and verify information before responding to unexpected online communications or making financial transactions. Its message, “Stop, think, check, then act,” summarised the precautions it wants personnel to follow while dealing with potential cyber threats.

The force also warned against downloading APK files received from unknown sources, as these applications could compromise mobile devices and expose personal or financial information. Personnel were advised to install applications only through trusted sources.

Anyone who encounters cyber fraud should report it immediately by calling the national cybercrime helpline at 1930 or filing a complaint through the government's official portal, cybercrime.gov.in.

The advisory concluded with the message: “Stay Alert, Stay Vigilant, Stay Cyber Safe.”

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Sashastra Seema Bal: Role and border security responsibilities

The SSB is a Central Armed Police Force under the Ministry of Home Affairs and is responsible for guarding India's borders with Nepal and Bhutan. Its mandate covers 1,751 km of the India-Nepal border and 699 km of the India-Bhutan border.

The force was established as the Special Service Bureau on May 15, 1963, following the Chinese aggression in 1962. It was brought under the Ministry of Home Affairs on January 15, 2001, and assigned responsibility for guarding the India-Nepal border on June 19, 2001. On March 12, 2004, it was also entrusted with guarding the India-Bhutan border.

Its responsibilities include fostering a sense of security among people living in border areas, preventing trans-border crimes and unauthorised entry into or exit from Indian territory, and curbing smuggling and other illegal activities along the borders.

Through the cyber security advisory, the SSB is seeking to reinforce safe digital practices among its personnel as online deception, data theft and financial fraud continue to pose risks to individuals using digital communication and payment services.