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Beware! SBI users are getting scam links on WhatsApp
28 Dec 2025

The Press Information Bureau (PIB) has issued a warning for customers of the State Bank of India (SBI).

The alert comes in light of a fraudulent message that is doing the rounds online.

The PIB cautioned users against messages asking them to download and install an APK file to redeem SBI rewards. It stressed that such links are part of an ongoing SMS and WhatsApp scam.

PIB's warning against downloading unknown files
Caution advised

The PIB stressed that SBI never sends links or APK files over SMS or WhatsApp.

It also urged users not to download unknown files or click on such links.

The Bureau shared a screenshot of the fake message as an example of the kind of deceptive messages that scammers are using to lure and trap customers.

SBI and PIB's repeated warnings against online scams
Ongoing vigilance

This isn't the first time such scams have been flagged. Both the Centre and SBI have issued repeated warnings to alert customers.

Just last month, SBI had warned its customers about an ongoing online scam, urging them not to click on links or download APK files to redeem "reward points."

The PIB also issued a similar warning on social media about fraudsters who may harm users through such links and messages.

Online fraud cases on the rise
Scam prevalence

Scam incidents have become routine, with fraudsters constantly devising new ways to exploit unsuspecting customers on various platforms.

They often do this using messages, links, and phone calls.

Despite repeated warnings from companies and government agencies, several people continue to fall prey to these schemes.

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data shows bank frauds surged to ₹36,014 crore in 2024-25, a 194% increase in value compared to the previous year.