Recently, customers of India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) have been receiving spam messages stating that their bank accounts would be blocked if they do not update their PAN card details. Such malicious messages contain links asking to submit personal details. PIB Fact Check has verified that such messages are not true and appealed to the public not to provide personal details based on such frauds.
Warning by PIB
The Press Information Bureau Fact Check team has marked this fraud and warned the public against it. On X (formerly Twitter), they put across the false news that if one's PAN card details are not updated, his or her account with India Post Payments Bank will be blocked within 24 hours. The PIB clarified that the claim is absolutely fake and told the public that India Post Payments Bank does not send such messages.
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They also warned people to be aware and not to share any personal or bank information through such messages. These types of misleading messages try to cheat someone into sharing their secret data so that any type of illegal activity can be done from their account. Always authenticate these types of messages before taking any action so that your money is saved.
In this scam, fraudsters impersonate bank officials or government representatives, claiming that a customer's PAN card is linked to some illegal activities or needs updating to conform. The victim is threatened with giving personal information like PAN numbers, bank account information, and ID documents. Armed with such data, fraudsters can carry out unauthorized transactions or create fake accounts in the victim's name.
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Protect Yourself from Such Scams
To avoid these fraudulent activities, be aware of the following:
1. Stay Away from Malicious Links: Never click on any link or share personal information when receiving unsolicited messages. No legitimate institution, such as IPPB, will ever ask for sensitive information through unsolicited messages.
2. Verify the Source: If you receive a suspicious message, contact the institution directly through official channels to verify its authenticity. Do not use the contact information provided in the questionable message.
3. Protect Private Information: Do not disclose personal information. Never disclose your PAN numbers or bank account details through unsecured channels or to unverified sources.
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4. Monitor Your Accounts: Periodically check bank statements and account activity for suspicious transactions. Discrepancies should be immediately reported to your bank.
5. Vigilance: Be informed of the common scams and fraud techniques. Banks such as IPPB issue security tips and updates that will help safeguard customers' finances.
IPPB advised on social media: "Keep your finances secure with safe digital banking practices! Regularly update passwords, avoid fake customer care numbers, monitor your accounts, and avoid suspicious links. Be cautious with public Wi-Fi, and always verify the authenticity of banking communications. Your financial security matters, stay informed and bank smart!"
The increasing use of digital communication results in fraudsters attempting to steal from unsuspecting people. In this regard, remaining vigilant and taking necessary security will enable customers to avoid falling prey to fraudulent messages that have been targeting IPPB account holders in recent times. All forms of communications requiring personal details must be verified before any response, and all cases of suspicious communications must be reported to the relevant authorities.
