The (SBI) has warned customers against searching online for a bank’s customer care number, as fraudsters use fake helpline listings to trick people into sharing sensitive details or transferring money.
SBI says customers should get customer support details only from the bank’s official website, not from any . The advisory is part of its National Cyber Security Month Special Campaign 6.0, which promotes practices and helps people recognise and avoid online scams.
“National Cyber Security Month Special Campaign 6.0 Searching for the customer care number? Visit only the official website of the concerned organization for any support or details of the customer care number. Stay Alert, Stay Safe!! @DFS_India @DARPG_GoI @Cyberdost”
The post includes a 1:02-minute video showing how these scams work. It explains that searching for “customer service” or a “local business number” and calling a top result can lead to financial loss.
A customer searches for the bank’s helpline and clicks a top result because the name matches. The person who answers sounds professional, but the listing may be fake, created by scammers to gain trust. They may then ask for bank details, request a payment or ask the customer to download an app. One wrong step can mean losing money.
Fraudsters can publish fake numbers on websites, online directories and social media. Once a customer calls, the fraudster may pose as a bank officer or representative to obtain or persuade the victim to transfer funds to other accounts. Customers who lose money to fraud should also be aware of the RBI’s rules on bank liability and compensation.
Don’t panic. Contact your bank immediately and report the incident on the or call 1930, the national cybercrime helpline.
SBI’s advisory comes down to one rule: verify before you call. Taking a few minutes to confirm the customer care number on the official website can protect your money from and your personal information from misuse.
