Got A WhatsApp Message In RBI's Name? Know The Truth About The Digital Rupee & How To Avoid Fraud

New Delhi: If any message in the name of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has come on your WhatsApp in recent days, then do not make the mistake of accepting it as correct without checking. These days, cyber thugs are targeting people in the name of RBI and digital rupee (e₹). Sometimes threats are made to freeze the account and sometimes luring people to join digital currency.

In such messages, attempts are being made to hack the mobile and steal banking information by sending links or APK files. In such a situation, it is important to understand what digital currency is and how to identify real and fake messages.

What is digital rupee and how does it work?

The digital rupee, also known as e-Rupee (e₹), is a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) issued by the Reserve Bank of India. It is not operated by a private organisation like any cryptocurrency, rather, its entire responsibility rests with the RBI. It is kept in a digital wallet and can be used to make person-to-person and merchant payments. Its validity is equivalent to cash rupees and it can be used through selected banks and authorised platforms.

Why are fake WhatsApp messages being sent in the name of RBI?

Cybercriminals are using the names of government institutions and banks to win people's trust. In recent cases, it has been seen that messages sent on WhatsApp claim that your bank account is involved in suspicious transactions or that you need to complete necessary procedures related to digital currency. Along with this, APK file or suspicious link is sent. As soon as a person downloads it, control of his mobile can reach cyber thugs and the risk of theft of banking information increases. PIB Fact Check has also termed such messages as fake.

How to identify whether the message is real or fake?

According to experts, RBI never sends APK file on WhatsApp and asks any customer to install it. Neither the bank nor the RBI asks for OTP, PIN, password or banking information by clicking on any link. If any message shows haste and asks to close the account, freeze money or take immediate action, then one should be alert. Such messages should always be confirmed through the bank's official website, mobile app or customer care.

What are three easy ways to avoid online fraud?

• The first rule is to not download any unknown links or APK files.
• Second, do not share confidential banking related information like OTP, UPI PIN, CVV or password with anyone, even if the other person introduces himself as a bank official.
• Third, if you receive any suspicious message, report it immediately to your bank and the National Cyber Crime Helpline. A complaint made in time can sometimes save you from huge financial loss.

What to do if the link is clicked by mistake?

If you have clicked on any suspicious link or downloaded an APK file, then first turn off the internet and delete the concerned app immediately. After this, inform your bank and get necessary security steps taken on the card or account. Change all important passwords and get the mobile security checked. If needed, file a complaint on 1930 cyber helpline or the National Cyber Crime Portal. Experts say that steps taken in the first few minutes can save the bank account from becoming empty.