What to Do If You Receive a Suspicious Bank Call or Message

In India, bank-related scams have become very common. Many people receive calls or messages that look like they are from a bank, but in reality, they are from fraudsters. These messages often ask for personal information, like your OTP, bank account number, or Aadhaar details.

This blog will help you understand what such scams look like and what steps you should take if you ever receive a suspicious bank call or message. Always remember, staying alert is the first step in staying safe.

How Do These Bank Scams Usually Happen?

Scammers use simple tricks to trap people. They know how to make their message or phone call look genuine. Here are a few common methods:

1. Fake Calls from “Bank Officials”

You may receive a call from someone claiming to be from your bank. They might say your account will be blocked unless you update your KYC or share your account details. They may even know your name or some other basic details to make it sound real.

2. Messages Asking for OTP or Password

These messages often say something like, “Your debit card will be deactivated. Please verify by sharing your OTP.” These are fake. No bank will ever ask for your OTP or PIN on a call or message.

3. Messages with Suspicious Links

Some messages ask you to click on a link to fix a problem or claim a reward. These links may look like they are from a bank, but they can steal your information once you click.

4. Threats from Fake Police or Government Officers

In some cases, scammers act like police or government officials. They may say you are involved in illegal activity and try to scare you into sending money.

Real Incidents That Have Happened Recently

This is not just theory. Such scams are happening every day:

• A senior citizen in Bengaluru lost ₹2.5 lakh after getting a call from someone pretending to be a police officer. He was told that his account was linked to a crime and had to pay money to clear it.
• In Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh, nine people were tricked into giving out their bank details through WhatsApp and SMS. They were told there were problems with their UPI or credit cards. Thankfully, over ₹2 lakh was later recovered and refunded to the victims.

These examples show how easy it is to get caught in these traps. That’s why it’s important to know what to do.

Steps to Follow When You Receive a Suspicious Call or Message

1. Do Not Share Any Details

Never share your OTP, PIN, Aadhaar number, or any bank information over the phone or through a message. Real bank employees will never ask for this.

2. Report the Fraud Immediately

Use the Chakshu Portal to report the suspicious call or message. This is a safe and official place where people can report such issues. Your report helps stop scammers and can also save others from being cheated.

3. Inform Your Bank

Call your bank’s customer service number, which is usually available on the back of your ATM card or on the bank’s official website. Tell them what happened. They may block your card or freeze your account to prevent misuse.

4. Contact the Cyber Crime Helpline

You can also call 1930, the national cyber crime helpline, or file a complaint online at cybercrime.gov.in. The faster you report, the better the chance of stopping the fraud or recovering your money.

How to Use Chakshu Portal to Report Suspicious Calls or Messages

The government has launched the Chakshu Portal to help citizens report fraud calls, SMS, and WhatsApp messages. Here is a simple guide on how to use it:

1. Visit sancharsaathi.gov.in.
2. Click on “Citizen Centric Services” and choose “Chakshu.”
3. Select the type of message: Call, SMS, or WhatsApp.
4. Enter details like the phone number, date, and time of the message or call.
5. Verify your own phone number through OTP.
6. Submit the form.

Once your report is submitted, the department will look into it. This step is very important, not only for you but also for helping others stay safe.

We strongly encourage users to report all suspicious messages using the Chakshu Portal, even if no money was lost.

Tips to Keep Yourself Safe

Here are a few easy things you can do every day to protect yourself:

• Do not click on unknown links. Even if it looks like it’s from your bank, avoid clicking if you’re not sure.
• Always check the source. If you receive a call, message, or email, take a moment to confirm it with your bank.
• Use official websites and apps only. For transactions or bank-related services, always use your bank’s official app or website.
• Educate your family. Share this information with your parents, children, and friends. Scammers often target people who are not aware of these tricks.
• Report early. The earlier you report a scam, the more chances there are to stop the fraud.

Final Words

Bank scams can happen to anyone. The good news is that by staying informed and taking the right steps, you can avoid falling into their trap.

Whenever you get a suspicious message or call, do not panic. Instead, take action. Use the Chakshu Portal to report it. Inform your bank. Contact the cybercrime helpline. And most importantly, share this knowledge with others.

The Chakshu Portal is built to help everyday people like you stay safe in the digital world. Use it whenever you feel something is wrong. Stay alert, stay safe, and help make the internet a better place for everyone.