How Are Bank Accounts Being Drained Without an OTP or Phone Call? The Government Reveals the Secret to Staying Safe

Cyber ​​Fraud: This new scam is linked to AEPS—the Aadhaar-Enabled Payment System. It utilizes facial authentication, a method generally considered secure.

Nowadays, cyber fraudsters have become so cunning that they are defrauding people without making a single phone call or requiring an OTP. In many instances, victims remain completely unaware as funds vanish from their bank accounts. In light of this escalating threat, the government has issued an alert, advising the public to remain vigilant.

This new scam is associated with AEPS—the Aadhaar-Enabled Payment System. It relies on facial authentication, a technology typically regarded as secure. However, cybercriminals are now exploiting this very feature. By utilizing a person's photograph and AI technology, they create a fraudulent digital replica of the individual's identity, which they then use to withdraw funds. Throughout this entire process, neither is an OTP required, nor does the victim receive any phone call. Consequently, people often fail to detect this fraud in time to prevent the loss.

To execute this type of fraud, criminals require nothing more than a photograph of you and some basic personal information. Using AI tools, they are able to bypass facial recognition systems. Subsequently, funds are withdrawn from the bank account via AEPS. This method is rapidly gaining traction and is proving to be extremely dangerous.

The most critical defense against such fraud is awareness. By remaining vigilant, you can significantly mitigate this risk. It is absolutely essential to safeguard the biometric data linked to your Aadhaar account. To do this, you can utilize the biometric lock feature available through the official Aadhaar-linked application, thereby preventing anyone from misusing your personal information. You should temporarily unlock this feature only when necessary, and ensure you lock it again immediately after completing your task. This may seem like a minor step, but it is of paramount importance for your security.

If you do not utilize this specific service, it is advisable to contact your bank and request that it be disabled. This will add an extra layer of security to your account and block the path for fraudsters.

If you ever fall victim to such an incident, it is crucial to take immediate action without wasting any time. You can register a complaint by calling the cybercrime helpline at 1930.

Additionally, inform your bank immediately to prevent any further financial loss. Cybercrimes are on the rise just as rapidly as technology is advancing. In such a scenario, remaining vigilant and staying well-informed constitutes your greatest defense.