FASTag KYC Update and Recharge Scam by SMS

How it looks by SMS, the red flags and what to do.

A text message is the cheapest way for a scammer to reach thousands of phones at once, and the sender name can look like a bank, a courier or a government office. FASTag KYC Update and Recharge Scam is one of the ways this shows up: A text says your FASTag will be blocked without a KYC update or recharge and gives a number or link. The target is your card and UPI details.

What fastag kyc update and recharge scam looks like by SMS

• A very short message with a deadline such as "today" or "within 24 hours".
• A shortened or oddly spelled link that does not match the real website.
• A request to call a number, install an app or share an OTP.

The scammer sends the message to many mobile numbers, since most car owners have a tag and many are linked to a bank account. The text names a tag issuer or a transport body and says the tag will be deactivated at midnight. Some people search online for a customer care number after a failed payment at a toll and land on a fake listing that looks real.

Red flags to check on the text message

• It says the tag will be blocked tonight.
• It gives a mobile number or link for support.
• It asks for a recharge through a link or UPI request.
• The caller asks you to install a support app.
• The message asks for an OTP, PIN, card number or password.
• It threatens blocking, arrest, disconnection or a fine unless you act at once.

What to do

1. Do not use the link or call the number in the message.
2. Check your tag balance and KYC inside the issuer's own app or the official bank app.
3. Recharge only through that official app or the bank's official site.
4. Paste the text into a scam checker (Safeavio Sentinel can check it) before you do anything else.
5. Report the sender on the Sanchar Saathi portal (Chakshu facility) and block the number.
6. Delete the message and tell family members who may get the same text.

You can report suspicious SMS and calls on the Sanchar Saathi portal (Chakshu facility) of the Department of Telecommunications.

If money or a code is already gone

1. Call 1930 quickly with the payment details.
2. Ask your bank through the number on your card to block the card and UPI if you shared details.
3. If you installed an app, uninstall it and review permissions.
4. File a complaint on cybercrime.gov.in with the message and call time.

National Cyber Crime Helpline: 1930; report at cybercrime.gov.in.

Safeavio Sentinel's scam check reads a pasted text and notes the night-time deadline, the support number and the recharge demand. The link check looks at the address for lookalike and shortened-link patterns. The phone scan can list installed remote-support style apps and risky permissions. It cannot see your tag balance or issuer records, and the check is only as good as the text or link you give it.

Full guide: FASTag KYC Update and Recharge Scam: how it works, signs and what to do. Other channels: phone call, fake app.

Questions