Got an SMS to update KYC or your account gets blocked? It is a scam

You get an SMS or WhatsApp message warning that your bank account, wallet, or PAN will be blocked today unless you update your KYC at once. It looks official and it feels urgent. That urgency is the trick. Real banks do not block your account over a single text with a link, and they never ask you to update KYC through a random link or app.

Never click a link or install an app from a KYC warning message, and never share an OTP, PIN, or card number in response to one. That is exactly what the scam needs to empty your account.

How to spot the KYC scam

It creates panic with a deadline, like your account will be blocked today or within hours.
It contains a link to a site that looks like your bank but has a slightly odd address.
It asks you to install an app so they can help you, which is really a screen sharing or remote access tool.
It asks for your OTP, PIN, card number, or account details, which no genuine bank ever does by message.

What to do if you already clicked or shared details

If you installed any app they told you to, uninstall it at once and turn on airplane mode until you have.
Call your bank's real fraud number and ask them to block your card and freeze your account.
Call 1930 and file a complaint on cybercrime.gov.in.
Change your net banking password and UPI PIN from a device you trust.

If you ever need to update KYC, do it only inside your bank's official app or by visiting the branch. Get the bank's number from the back of your card or its official website, never from a message.

Report the message

You can report the fraud number so it can be blocked and others are protected. Use the Chakshu facility on the Sanchar Saathi portal to flag fraud messages and calls, and add the number to your complaint on cybercrime.gov.in.

Common questions

Will my bank really block my account if I do not update KYC by SMS?

No. Banks do not block accounts through a single text with a link, and they never ask you to update KYC through a random link or app. Any message that says so and creates a deadline is a scam.

I clicked the link and entered my details. What should I do?

Call your bank's real fraud number immediately to block your card and freeze the account, then call 1930 and file on cybercrime.gov.in. Change your net banking password and UPI PIN from a device you trust.

How do I update KYC safely?

Only inside your bank's official app or at the branch. Never through a link in a message. If you are unsure, call the number on the back of your card to confirm what is genuinely needed.

Where do I report a fake KYC message?

Use the Chakshu facility on the Sanchar Saathi portal to report the fraud number or message, and include it in your complaint on cybercrime.gov.in.

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