Govt alerts SBI customers about new SBI net banking reward scam, says never click on unknown links or files

The Government has alerted SBI customers about a fake message promising SBI net banking rewards. Users are urged to remain vigilant and avoid engaging with unsolicited messages to protect their sensitive information.

In Short

• PIB issues warning about SBI rewards scam
• Scammers are reportedly sending phishing messages to customers
• The message involves steps to earn easy SBI rewards

The Press Information Bureau has issued an alert about a new scam targeting State Bank of India (SBI) customers. According to the advisory from the nodal agency of the Government of India, scammers are circulating deceptive messages that prompt users to download an app to redeem fake "SBI rewards." PIB has shared one such message on its social media channel and has advised users to exercise caution, avoid clicking on any unsolicited links, and refrain from downloading unfamiliar files.

PIB has emphasised that SBI does not send links or APK files (Android application files) via SMS or WhatsApp to claim rewards. Therefore, to avoid falling for such deceptive scams, the government agency has urged people to refrain from interacting with messages from unknown numbers that may appear authentic but are, in fact, phishing attempts designed to steal sensitive information.

What is the SBI reward scam?

According to a screenshot of one such scam message shared by PIB, this new scam involves a text message sent through channels like WhatsApp that claims customers have accumulated "SBI NetBanking Reward Points," often with a significant monetary value, like Rs 18,000. The message warns that these points will expire soon, creating a sense of urgency to convince users to take immediate action. It further instructs users to download an app called “SBI Reward” to redeem these points, claiming that the amount will be deposited directly into their bank accounts.

However, this message is fake. If a user follows the instructions, they may unknowingly download malicious software or APK files designed to harvest personal information, including passwords, bank details, and other sensitive data. Cybersecurity experts caution that such APK files can easily compromise devices, granting hackers remote access and the ability to steal data without the user’s knowledge.

Notably, this scam warning from the government comes amid an increase in cyber fraud incidents. Cybercriminals are continually evolving their tactics to deceive people, often creating fake websites or applications that mimic legitimate platforms. Many victims in recent years have fallen prey to these scams due to the convincing appearance of the messages, which often use SBI’s name, branding, and familiar terminology to build trust.

The government and cybersecurity experts urge SBI customers and all online banking users to take the following precautions to protect their sensitive information:

Do not click on links or download files sent via SMS or WhatsApp, especially from unknown sources or those promising rewards.

Only download SBI-related apps from trusted sources like the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Users should always verify the app’s authenticity before installation.

To redeem genuine SBI reward points, customers can log in to the official SBI Rewardz website (https://www.rewardz.sbi/) or call the verified SBI Rewardz customer care at 1800-209-8500.

Report suspicious messages to the bank or use the government’s cybercrime reporting portal, which can help authorities track and shut down scams faster.