Beware of fake banking apps! You could empty your account; check these 4 things before installing them...
Scam Alert: These days, fake banking apps look so real that anyone can be fooled at first glance. A flashing icon on the Play Store, a name similar to the bank's, and thousands of five-star reviews make it seem like the right app. But as soon as you install them, they silently steal your passwords, OTPs, and account details. Such traps are spread at every step in the digital world, and recognizing them has become your most important banking skill.
Fake banking apps look exactly like real bank apps, but they steal your banking details as soon as you install them. Therefore, be sure to check a few things before downloading any banking app.
First, check the publisher's name.
Genuine bank apps on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store typically use the bank's real name, such as HDFC Bank Ltd, State Bank of India, or ICICI Bank Ltd. Fake apps may slightly alter the name, adding words like Pro, Secure, Mobile Banking, Services, or misspelling the bank's name.
Genuine bank apps have millions of downloads and thousands of reviews. Fake apps have low downloads, and reviews are often copied and pasted, short, and appear to be the same.
Don't download apps from links or QR codes.
Banks never ask you to download apps via SMS, WhatsApp, Telegram, or email links, nor do they send APKs. Genuine apps are available only on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Be sure to read app permissions.
Genuine banking apps only ask for essential permissions, such as SMS (for OTP), camera (for KYC), or location (for ATM/Branch Finder). Fake apps ask you to grant unnecessary permissions, such as access to contacts, call logs, screen recording, or notifications.
If you accidentally install a fake app, uninstall it immediately, scan your phone, change your internet banking/UPI password, and inform the bank immediately.
Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from News 18 hindi. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.
