According to SBI, cyber fraudsters send messages to customers via SMS or WhatsApp. These messages claim that the customer has thousands of reward points in their account that will expire soon. The message includes a link and urges the recipient to redeem the points immediately. Many people, in their haste and tempted by the free offer, click on this link, which leads them to a fake website.
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How Your Account Can Be Emptied After Clicking the Link
As soon as the user opens the link, they are asked to enter their debit card number, expiry date, CVV, or other banking information. In some cases, an OTP (One-Time Password) is also requested. Once this information reaches the fraudsters, they withdraw money from the account within minutes. The victim remains unaware until the money is gone from their account.
Why It’s Important to Identify Fake Messages
SBI stated that the biggest indicator of a fake message is its language. Such messages often contain spelling mistakes, awkward sentence structures, and unprofessional language. Banks never ask customers for confidential information by asking them to click on a link. If a message seems suspicious, ignoring it immediately is the safest option.
Difference Between Genuine and Fake Bank Calls
According to SBI, automated calls from the bank usually come from numbers starting with 1600. Calls from such numbers can be considered authorized. Calls requesting banking information from any other mobile or private number should not be trusted.
What to Do Immediately If You Become a Victim of Fraud
If someone becomes a victim of this type of online fraud, they should immediately call the 1930 cyber helpline number. A complaint can also be filed on the cybercrime.gov.in portal. The sooner the complaint is filed, the higher the chances of recovering the money.
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Essential Precautions for Online Safety
SBI has clearly warned against clicking on any unknown links. Do not share your OTP, CVV number, UPI PIN, or any other bank-related information with anyone, even if the person claims to be a bank employee.