WhatsApp Message from RBI Scam: If you receive a message on WhatsApp claiming to be from the RBI, do not open it. The government has warned that this is a scam attempt.
WhatsApp Message from RBI Scam: If you receive a message on WhatsApp purportedly from the RBI, do not open it; it could be a scam attempt using the RBI's name. Incidents of WhatsApp scams are on the rise. Scammers are now using the names of trusted institutions like the RBI to lure people into their traps. In light of this, the government is alerting the public about such messages.
Messages sent with APK files
Scammers are sending WhatsApp messages that include an APK file. The sender uses the RBI logo as their profile picture. To create panic, the message claims that the recipient's bank account has been linked to suspicious transactions. It asks for financial details to prevent the account from being blocked and warns that failure to comply within three days will result in the account being blocked. The government has now declared this message fake and issued an alert.
Government issues alert
PIB Fact Check has clarified the reality of this message, stating that it is fake. Fraudsters aim to steal your banking and personal information through such messages. Advising on how to stay safe, the post warns against clicking suspicious links or downloading unknown APK files. The RBI communicates via WhatsApp using only two verified numbers (indicated by a blue tick): 99309 91935 and 99990 41935. The post recommends visiting the official RBI website for authentic information.
How to avoid such scams?
WhatsApp and other social media platforms are currently flooded with such scam messages. Scammers often attempt fraud by sending messages in the name of the RBI or other government departments. To avoid such scams, it is important to keep the following points in mind:
