How to check if your smartphone is hacked using this simple code

fraud scam

• Call-forwarding scams divert calls, messages, and OTPs without user knowledge.
• Dial #21# to check if calls or messages are being forwarded to another number
• Use ##002# to instantly disable all call forwarding on your smartphone

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Smartphone hacking and call-forwarding scams are rising, with attackers silently diverting calls, messages, and OTPs without the user’s knowledge. A simple USSD code can help you quickly check whether your calls or messages are being forwarded to an unknown number.

How to check for call forwarding on your smartphone

1. Open the Phone or Dialer app on your smartphone.

2. Enter *#21# exactly as shown.

3. Tap the call button and wait for a few seconds.

4. A message will appear on your screen showing the status of call forwarding, message forwarding, and data forwarding.

If the result shows “Not forwarded” for all services, your phone is not redirecting calls or messages. If any number appears next to voice calls, SMS, or data, it indicates that forwarding is active and needs attention.

 Understand the *#21# result

This code checks whether unconditional call forwarding is enabled on your number. Scammers sometimes activate forwarding to receive incoming calls or OTP messages meant for you. If a forwarding number is displayed and you did not set it yourself, it could put your bank alerts, verification codes, and private calls at risk.

- If the screen shows “Not forwarded” for calls and messages, no redirection is active and your number is safe.

- If any service appears as “Forwarded” to an unknown number, your calls or SMS, including bank OTPs, may be diverted.

- In case of unknown forwarding, disable all call forwarding immediately and contact your mobile operator for verification.

If your 'call forwarding' feature is enabled for your phone -- you have to deactivate it by following these steps:

How to disable all call forwarding instantly

1. Open the Phone or Dialer app again.

2. Dial ##002#.

3. Press the call button and wait for confirmation.

4. Once completed, all types of call forwarding will be disabled on your number.

This step resets forwarding settings and is recommended even if you are unsure when the feature was activated.

When should you run this check

It is advisable to run this check once every month. You should also use it immediately if you notice unusual behaviour such as missing calls, delayed OTPs, or alerts that do not arrive on time.

Important things to keep in mind

This method works on most Android and iOS smartphones and does not install any app or access personal data. It only checks network-level forwarding settings provided by your telecom operator. If forwarding reappears after disabling it, contact your mobile network provider immediately.