Beware of SBI SMS scam! Bank warns users, shows how to stay safe from online fraud

SBI SMS scam: Fake SMS can trick customers into clicking on links and giving away their banking information through these online frauds, the State Bank of India (SBI) has warned.

SBI SMS scam: SBI wants to keep its users safe and has issued guidelines to ensure its customers are safe from online fraud. (SBI via Twitter)

Online banking has evolved over the years to become easy and convenient, allowing customers to quickly manage their funds from their smartphones and computers. However, along with all the convenience of banking come many risks, including the danger of scams and online fraud. The State Bank of India (SBI), the country's largest public sector bank is aware of these online fraud risks that can affect users, and it is always issuing warnings and advisories to keep its customers safe. With a SBI SMS scam raging nowadays, the bank has again shared guidelines to keep users safe online and protect them from hacking, phishing and other nefarious activity online.

In a tweet, the State Bank of India recently explained various aspects of staying safe online, explaining how a user should keep an eye out for SMS scam messages to stay safe from online fraud. During the pandemic, online fraud has increased considerably, and users need to stay alert. Here's what SBI says about how users should stay alert in order to avoid fraud online.

SBI says that customers should be aware of the “shortcode” used by the bank, which begins with SBI. These include SBIBNK, SBIINB, SBIPSG, and SBIYONO. “Always check who's behind the door before letting anyone in. Here is your key to safety,” the bank stated in a tweet on Friday. Users who receive an SMS with a message claiming to be from SBI, should check the sender to see if it was sent from these senders to know if it is a genuine SMS.

SBI has advised users to check their SMS to monitor their account activity, but warn them against acting on messages from unknown sources.

SBI has also warned users about scams that can take place over email, as many users fall prey to tall claims from scammers online. “Be aware of fraudulent emails offering free gifts and rewards. Scammers send these emails to extract money from your account via your personal details. Do not share your bank details with anyone. SBI never asks for your UPI PIN,” the bank explained in another tweet posted on Sunday.