ISLAMABAD: Kaspersky Scam warnings have highlighted a rise in phishing attacks targeting people who buy mobile data plans and SIM cards online, particularly during the peak travel season when demand for connectivity increases.

Kaspersky researchers said cybercriminals have created counterfeit websites that closely resemble the portals of major regional and international telecom operators. The fake sites aim to trick users into revealing phone numbers, login credentials, personal information and banking details.

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In one scheme, fraudsters impersonate an international telecommunications company operating across Asia, Africa and Europe. The phishing pages prompt users to enter their mobile numbers and account credentials. While some fake pages differ slightly from the genuine websites, others closely copy the original design, making it difficult for users to distinguish between legitimate and fraudulent platforms.

The company warned that submitting authentication details or payment information on fake websites could lead to financial losses, identity theft and an increase in spam messages and fraudulent calls.

Kaspersky also identified another scam involving a telecom provider operating in North Africa, the Middle East and Southeast Asia. In this case, cybercriminals persuade users to recharge mobile data or internet packages by entering personal and bank card information on fraudulent websites.

Another phishing campaign encourages users to check or pay outstanding mobile bills by providing sensitive personal details. According to Kaspersky, these scams are designed to steal data, compromise online accounts and gain access to victims’ finances.

Tatyana Kulikova, a cybersecurity expert at Kaspersky, said advances in artificial intelligence have enabled scammers to produce convincing fake websites more quickly and accurately.

“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,” she said.

She advised consumers to remain cautious when purchasing mobile or internet plans online and recommended buying eSIMs through official applications to reduce the risk of falling victim to fake telecom websites.

Kaspersky urged users to verify website addresses carefully, watch for spelling mistakes or suspicious domain names and avoid opening links or attachments from unknown emails. The company also recommended using security software with anti-phishing protection to block malicious websites before they can compromise personal information.