India’s largest public sector bank, State Bank of India (SBI), has cautioned millions of its customers about a new online fraud targeting users through deceptive messages. Cybercriminals are attempting to steal sensitive banking information using fake alerts.
Fraudsters are sending messages via SMS, WhatsApp, or email, claiming that the customer’s YONO SBI account will soon be deactivated because their Aadhaar-based KYC has not been updated.
The message creates urgency, asking users to update their KYC immediately and provides a link. Once clicked, the link redirects users to a fake website or prompts them to download a malicious app.
These links or APK files are highly dangerous. Through them, scammers can:
- Steal internet banking login credentials
- Gain access to personal data stored on the phone
- Capture OTPs and take control of banking access
Once they obtain this information, fraudsters can drain money from the account within minutes.
SBI has clearly stated that customers should not trust such messages. The bank has shared important safety guidelines:
- Download apps only from official app stores
- Avoid clicking on unknown or suspicious links
- Ignore doubtful messages received via SMS, email, or WhatsApp
- Never share personal or banking information with anyone
To protect yourself from online fraud, follow these precautions:
- Always verify KYC or banking-related messages through the bank’s official website or by visiting a branch
- Regularly review installed apps and their permissions on your phone
- Do not act in haste, as scammers often exploit fear and urgency
While digital banking has made transactions easier, it has also increased the risk of cyber fraud. Staying alert and verifying every suspicious message is essential to keep your finances secure.
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