Fake bank manager: "debit card blocked, share the OTP"
A caller posing as your bank manager says your card is blocked and asks for card details and the OTP to unblock it.
Community reports: 0 · Checks that matched it in the last 30 days: 1
How it works
- A caller pretending to be your bank manager says your debit card or account is blocked for KYC, and may already know your name and part of your card number.
- He offers to unblock it at once and asks for the card number, expiry date, CVV and then the OTP that arrives on your phone.
- The OTP is used to make a payment or add your card to their app, and money leaves your account while he keeps you talking.
What it looks like
Example messages. Numbers and links are masked.
Namaste uncle, I am calling from your bank's head office. Your ATM card is blocked due to KYC. Tell me the 16 digit number on the card and I will activate it now.
Sir, you will get a code now for verification. Please read it out quickly, otherwise the account will be frozen.
Red flags
- Asked for OTP, CVV or PIN
- Card "blocked" and must be fixed now
- Caller already knows a few of your details
- The OTP message says it is for a payment
The one question to ask
Why would your own bank need you to read out an OTP that the bank itself sent?
Already paid or shared details?
Call your bank at once on the number printed on your card to block the card and UPI, then call 1930 to try to freeze the money. File a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in with the caller's number and the transaction details.
1930 · cybercrime.gov.in
Also seen as
- Credit card reward points "expiring today"
- Fake bank manager asking you to install a "support" app
- Pension account KYC "blocked" call