SBI : State Bank of India customers are on alert. Many SBI customers panicked when they received a message on WhatsApp and other social media platforms. The message stated that it was necessary to update their Aadhaar-linked KYC immediately and that an APK file would need to be downloaded. It also warned that failing to do so would result in the SBI YONO app being shut down. This message instilled fear in people.
After the issue escalated, the government’s fact-checking agency, PIB, stepped in. The PIB Fact Check team, on X (formerly Twitter), stated clearly that the message is fake and misleading. PIB clarified that the claim being circulated in the name of SBI is false and that people should not download any APK files.
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SBI warning
SBI has also alerted its customers, stating that the bank never asks them to download APK files via WhatsApp, SMS, or email. Nor does it send any links to update Aadhaar or KYC in this manner. According to the bank, fraudsters are sending fake APK links in the name of SBI YONO, which, when installed, give them control of the mobile phone.
What harm can APK scams cause?
SBI stated that such fraudulent apps, once installed on a mobile device, can steal banking logins, OTPs, messages, and personal information. This could then lead to unauthorized withdrawals from accounts. The bank has clearly advised that apps should only be downloaded from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
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How to avoid scams?
Do not click on any unknown link or file.
Be wary of messages that convey fear or haste.
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The bank never asks for personal information over the phone or message.
Don’t trust messages with misspellings and strange language.
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Where to complain?
If you receive such a suspicious message or suspect cyber fraud, you can email report.phishing@sbi.co.in, call the cybercrime helpline number 1930, or file a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in.