Fact Check

PIB Fact Check Warns Against WhatsApp Scam Impersonating RBI

PIB Fact Check warned users about a widespread WhatsApp phishing scam. Fraudsters are impersonating the RBI to steal sensitive financial information.

According to the alert, cybercriminals are distributing messages that claim suspicious transactions have occurred in a recipient’s bank account.

The messages warn users that their accounts may be blocked unless they act immediately.

Fraudsters attach APK or ZIP files to these messages and encourage recipients to download them.

In several cases, the messages also request banking credentials and personal details under the guise of security verification.

PIB Fact Check categorically labelled these communications as fake.

RBI PHISHING SCAM ‼️

Did you also receive a #WhatsApp message in the name of RBI, along with an APK file , alleging that your bank account is linked to suspicious transactions and asking for financial details to avoid account blockage ❓

#PIBFactCheck:

❌ This message is… pic.twitter.com/XoA4lBaVo8

— PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) June 11, 2026

Authorities stated that the primary objective of the scammers is to steal confidential financial and personal information from unsuspecting users.

The fact-checking unit strongly advised citizens not to download APK files received from unknown sources. It also urged users to avoid opening suspicious links shared through unsolicited messages.

Officials emphasised that individuals should verify any banking-related communication through authorised channels before responding or taking action.

The advisory further clarified that the Reserve Bank of India communicates on WhatsApp only through its two verified numbers:

99309 91935
99990 41935

Users seeking authentic information have been encouraged to rely on the RBI’s official communication channels and visit its official website for verified updates and announcements.

The warning aligns with the RBI’s recent efforts to strengthen public awareness through verified digital communication platforms.

Authorities urged citizens to remain vigilant, exercise caution online and promptly report suspicious messages to help prevent financial fraud and identity theft.

Pragati Upadhyay

I report stories and occasionally rescue facts from chaos. By profession, I’m a journalist; by conviction, a social worker who believes words should move people, not just headlines. I question power, celebrate ordinary heroes, and sometimes irritate the comfortable. If truth had a shift, I’d probably be working overtime.