Reward Points Scam: The country’s largest government banks State Bank of India (SBI) has issued an important warning to alert customers. The bank has shared a post on social media, especially Instagram, explaining how fraudsters are trapping people in the name of Reward Points. These fraudsters adopt such cunning methods that even educated and intelligent people become victims of fraud.

This is how the game of fraud begins

According to SBI, fraudsters send messages to users through SMS or WhatsApp. In these messages it is claimed that thousands of Reward Points are deposited in your account, which are going to expire soon. The message reads “Click here to redeem instantly”. Often people click on the link thinking that why not use the free points. This is where the fraud begins.

One mistake and the account may become empty

On clicking the link, a fake website opens, where you are asked to fill the debit card details. As soon as a person enters the card number, expiry date or other information, the fraudsters get direct access to the account. Result: Empty bank account within few minutes.

How to identify fake messages?

SBI said that it is important to pay attention to some signs to identify fake messages.

• Wrong spelling and bad language in the message


• Words showing haste such as immediately, click now


• unknown link or number

The bank has also clarified that if a call comes from the bank, it usually comes from number 1600 only. Calls coming from such numbers are mostly genuine.

What to do if fraud occurs?

If someone gets cheated, instead of panicking, immediately call the helpline number 1930. Apart from this, online complaint can also be filed on cybercrime.gov.in. Complaining on time increases the chances of getting the money back.

Always keep these things in mind

• Do not click on any unknown link


• Do not share OTP, CVV number, UPI PIN or bank details with anyone.


• The bank never asks for confidential information over phone or message.