Vodafone users, here’s a ‘5G warning’ for you that Airtel and Jio users too need to note – Times of India

Vodafone-Idea users, be warned. Criminals are out to steal your money and sensitive data by luring you with the promise of upgrading to 5G. Several Vodafone users have been receiving messages on text (SMS) and WhatsApp asking them to upgrade to 5G by clicking on a link or by calling on a certain number. Some Vodafone users in Times of India Tech edit team too have been getting such text messages claiming to be from Vodafone-Idea. “Vi 5G network is live. Click on the link below or call on XXXXXX number to upgrade,’ reads one such message. The link in one of the messages is of some Paytm account. There are several versions of such fraud messages circulating – all with the aim to dupe Vodafone users in the name of 5G upgrade.
What makes these messages dangerous
Vodafone users need to note that the company is yet to announce its 5G plans. While Airtel and Reliance Jio have launched 5G services in certain cities across the country, Vodafone is yet to start 5G rollout in the country. This means that all messages/calls that claim to offer Vodafone users 5G upgrade are fraud. By clicking on these links users will become victims of financial or data fraud. They may also end up giving hackers remote control of their device. So, it is critical not to respond to any such message or call that promises 5G upgrade.

Also, not just Vodafone-Idea, customers of no telecom service providers, including Airtel and Jio (who have rolled out 5G services), can upgrade to 5G by just clicking on a link. Please also note here that 5G services from Airtel and Jio too are available only in select cities of the country right now.
What Vodafone says on 5G rollout
“Vi is actively working with its partners to bring 5G to multiple cities. Wait to hear from us on our plans,” is what Vodafone-Idea says on its page about rollout of 5G services in India. It further informs users that they will not require new SIM cards to avail 5G services. “No, you only need to have a 4G compatible SIM card to experience 5G.” All that users will require is a 5G compatible phone and need to be in an area where 5G services are available.
So, Vodafone-Idea users wait for information through official channels rather than trusting any call or SMS about 5G upgrade.