PIB Fact Check Uncovers Fake BSNL 5G Tower NOC Scam

India’s official PIB Fact Check has flagged a growing scam targeting property owners with fraudulent BSNL 5G mobile tower NOCs.

The fake documents claim to come from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and demand a ₹2,500 ‘agreement fee’ for permitting tower installation on private land. These scams mimic legitimate telecom procedures, creating the illusion of official sanction.

However, PIB clarified that the DoT does not charge any government fees or advance payments for installing towers by licensed operators such as BSNL, Jio, or Airtel. Property owners who pay these so-called ‘fees’ risk financial loss without any legitimate agreement.

The fact check comes amid a surge in telecom-related fraud across India since 2022.

Both TRAI and DoT have repeatedly warned citizens about fake NOCs, misleading emails, WhatsApp messages, and unauthorised intermediaries soliciting payments.

The schemes exploit the public’s limited knowledge of regulatory norms and the high demand for 5G infrastructure.

Authorities stress that licensed telecom providers negotiate tower agreements directly with landowners.

These agreements do not require any mandatory payments to government departments.

In all official procedures, verification of documents through dot.gov.in is crucial before making commitments.

The PIB alert advises property owners to remain vigilant. Recipients of unsolicited NOCs or fee requests should cross-check with official DoT channels, refuse suspicious payment demands, and report fraud attempts to local police immediately. Early detection helps prevent financial and legal complications.

Telecom operators have also emphasised proactive public awareness. BSNL confirmed that it never charges upfront ‘agreement fees’ for tower installations and collaborates only through formal contracts with property owners.

Experts recommend that citizens educate themselves on telecom compliance, DoT licensing rules, and standard tower agreements.

This knowledge reduces vulnerability to scams and strengthens overall confidence in the rapidly expanding 5G rollout.

The PIB Fact Check highlights a critical need for due diligence and awareness as India accelerates its 5G expansion.

By verifying NOCs, understanding DoT guidelines, and reporting fraudulent actors, property owners can protect themselves while supporting the country’s telecom infrastructure growth.

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