RBI did not send account suspension notices via APK files on WhatsApp, PIB Fact Check warns
New Delhi, June 11
The Press Information Bureau's Fact Check unit has warned people against a fake WhatsApp message being circulated in the name of the Reserve Bank of India, saying fraudsters are using APK files and false account suspension threats to steal banking and personal information.
In a post on social media platform X, PIB Fact Check flagged the message as fraudulent and urged users not to download files or share financial details.
The fact-checking unit said some users may have received a WhatsApp message claiming to be from the RBI, along with an APK file, alleging that their bank account was linked to suspicious transactions and asking them to provide financial information to avoid account restrictions.
Debunking the claim, PIB Fact Check stated, "This message is Fake."
It further warned that "Fraudsters are using such messages to steal your banking and personal information."
According to the screenshots shared by PIB Fact Check, the fake message claims that the RBI has issued a notice regarding "risk control measures" and "unusual transaction activities" linked to a company's account. It then asks recipients to submit information within three working days to avoid restrictions or suspension of the account.
PIB Fact Check advised the public not to engage with such messages and said users should never install unknown applications received through unsolicited messages.
It specifically cautioned people to "Never download unknown APK files or click on suspicious links."
The fact-checking unit also clarified that RBI communicates on WhatsApp only through its two verified blue-tick numbers.
PIB Fact Check said, "RBI communicates via WhatsApp ONLY through its two blue tick verified numbers," listing the official numbers as 99309 91935 and 99990 41935.
The agency urged citizens to verify information through official channels and directed users to the RBI's website for authentic updates.
The advisory comes amid growing instances of cyber fraud in which scammers impersonate government agencies, regulators and financial institutions to gain access to users' sensitive banking information.
— ANI
Reader Comments
About time they issued a warning. My colleague in Bangalore almost fell for this. It's scary how convincing these messages look now. I think banks should also put clearer disclaimers in their official app and website about not sending APK files via WhatsApp.
This is a timely alert. My uncle in Chennai got a similar message asking him to "update his Aadhaar linked bank details" and was about to click the link. Thank God I stopped him! But what about those who don't have someone to guide them? More awareness campaigns needed in regional languages on TV and radio.
Good job PIB Fact Check! 👍 I've seen these messages circulating in my family WhatsApp group. It's a relief that RBI has official verified numbers. The best rule everyone should follow: never download anything from someone you don't know personally, even if they claim to be from a government agency.
While I appreciate the warning, I feel the RBI and government need to do more than just posts on social media. Many of the elderly don't use Twitter (X) or Instagram. Please print notices and put them up in bank branches and post offices across the country. Also, make these scams a regular topic for DD News bulletins.
It's smart that PIB is joining the fight against these scams. I'm working in cybersecurity in Delhi and have seen a rise in such phishing attempts. But honestly, the fact that scammers target people's fear of losing their bank account shows we need better financial literacy in schools and communities. Prevention is better than cure.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.