Thiruvananthapuram: Cybercriminals are once again targeting SBI customers with a sophisticated scam disguised as an update alert for the YONO banking app. Kerala Police has issued a public warning urging users to stay vigilant and avoid falling prey to messages from unknown or private numbers that claim the YONO app will soon be disabled unless updated.
According to the police, fraudsters are sending deceptive SMS or WhatsApp messages that contain links labeled as KYC Update, YONO Update, or Reward Redemption. These links redirect unsuspecting users to download a malicious application named YONO_SBI.APK, which closely mimics the genuine SBI YONO app.
Once installed, the app opens a fake login page resembling the real YONO interface, prompting users to enter their Username and Password. Unaware of the deception, users who enter their credentials hand over sensitive banking information to the scammers, who simultaneously use it to log in to the legitimate SBI site.
The fraud intensifies when the fake app requests an OTP, claiming it is part of the login process. By entering the OTP, users unknowingly grant full access to their internet banking platform, allowing the criminals to empty the account within moments.
Police have urged citizens not to click on any unknown links, especially those received through SMS, WhatsApp, or social media. They also reminded the public that SBI never sends APK files or update requests via private messages.
Victims or witnesses of such cyber frauds are encouraged to immediately contact the national cybercrime helpline 1930 or lodge a complaint through the official website cybercrime.gov.in.