New Delhi, March 22: The Press Information Bureau (PIB) has flagged a fake message circulating on social media that falsely claims accounts on SBI YONO will be blocked unless users immediately update their Aadhaar details.
The message, identified as a phishing attempt, directs recipients to download an APK file titled “SBI KYC AADHAR UPDATE” to avoid service disruption. Officials have clarified that such instructions are fraudulent and not issued by the State Bank of India.
According to PIB Fact Check, the message is designed to mislead users into sharing sensitive personal and banking information. SBI has also confirmed via its official channels that it does not require customers to download APK files for Aadhaar or KYC updates.
Cybersecurity experts warn that installing applications from unverified sources can compromise device security, potentially leading to unauthorised access to financial data. The fraudulent message typically addresses recipients as “Dear SBI customer” and uses urgency around account blocking to prompt action.
Authorities have urged customers to avoid clicking on unknown links or downloading APK files shared via SMS, email, or messaging platforms such as WhatsApp. Users are also advised not to share personal, banking, or Aadhaar-related information with unverified sources.
SBI has provided a dedicated reporting channel—report.phishing@sbi.co.in—for customers to flag suspicious communications. Experts recommend verifying any such alerts through official bank apps or websites before taking action.
The incident underscores a growing wave of phishing attacks targeting digital banking users, with fraudsters increasingly exploiting fear of account suspension to extract sensitive information. As digital banking adoption rises, customers are advised to remain vigilant and rely solely on verified communications from official sources.
