The Press Information Bureau’s Fact Check unit has issued a warning regarding fraudulent messages circulating online in the name of the State Bank of India (SBI).
According to the alert, scammers are sending SMS and WhatsApp messages asking users to download and install APK files in order to redeem fake SBI reward points.
In a post on X, PIB Fact Check said:
Did you also receive a message asking you to download & install an APK file to redeem SBI rewards❓
Beware‼️
❌@TheOfficialSBI NEVER sends links or APK files over SMS/WhatsApp.
✔️Never download unknown files or click on such links.
Did you also receive a message asking you to download & install an APK file to redeem SBI rewards❓
Beware‼️ #PIBFactCheck
❌@TheOfficialSBI NEVER sends links or APK files over SMS/WhatsApp.
✔️Never download unknown files or click on such links. pic.twitter.com/mWIXrSYpRe
— PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) May 29, 2026
Authorities have advised the public to remain cautious and avoid interacting with such suspicious messages, as they are part of an online fraud attempt designed to steal personal and financial information.
PIB Fact Check clarified that the State Bank of India never sends APK files or unauthorised application download links through SMS or WhatsApp.
The advisory stressed that users should immediately ignore and delete any message claiming to offer reward redemptions through external links or downloadable files.
Officials warned that downloading unknown APK files can compromise mobile devices and expose sensitive banking information to cyber criminals.
The government urged citizens to avoid clicking on suspicious links received through messaging platforms or text messages.
Cybersecurity experts have repeatedly cautioned that fraudsters often impersonate trusted institutions, including banks, to trick users into installing malicious software on their devices.
Once installed, such applications may gain unauthorised access to personal data, passwords, banking credentials and OTPs.
Safety Measures for Banking Customers
Authorities advised users to verify all banking-related communication only through official SBI channels and websites.
Authorities also advised people to keep their mobile security updated, avoid downloading applications from unknown sources and report suspicious activity immediately.
The advisory serves as another reminder for customers to remain vigilant against the growing number of digital fraud attempts targeting banking users across the country.
PIB Fact Check urged the public to share the warning widely to prevent more people from falling victim to cyber scams involving fake SBI reward schemes.
Also Read: PIB Fact Check Debunks AI-Generated Fake Video Linked To MEA Official
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