PAN Update Bank Account Block 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. PAN Update Bank Account Block Scam is one of the ways this shows up: A message says your PAN must be updated or your bank account and card will be blocked. The form steals PAN, login details and OTPs.

What pan update bank account block 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 a message in the name of a bank, using a sender name that looks close to a real one, saying that PAN updating is mandatory. The text warns that your account, card or demat services will be restricted from tomorrow. It includes a link, which is often shortened, and may ask you to complete the process before a time that is a few hours away.

Red flags to check on the text message

• The message says PAN must be updated by a link.
• A block or penalty is threatened for tomorrow.
• The form asks for PAN with banking login and card details.
• An OTP is requested to complete a 'PAN update'.
• It threatens blocking, arrest, disconnection or a fine unless you act at once.
• It promises a refund, prize or cashback you never asked for.

What to do

1. Do not tap the link and do not enter your PAN anywhere.
2. Check your bank's official app or visit the branch to see if anything is pending.
3. Never share an OTP or card details for a PAN update.
4. Do not reply, do not tap the link and do not call the number in the message.
5. Open the official app or type the official website yourself to see if there is any real notice.
6. Paste the text into a scam checker (Safeavio Sentinel can check it) before you do anything else.

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 immediately if money was taken, with the transaction details.
2. Call your bank on the number on your card and block cards and net banking.
3. Keep a record of where you entered your PAN and watch for loans or accounts in your name.
4. Report at https://cybercrime.gov.in with the message and form screenshots.

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

Safeavio's scam check works on text you paste or share and explains what looks wrong, such as fake authority, a deadline and OTP asks. The link check looks at the link before you open it for lookalike domains and shortened links. It cannot check your PAN status, so use your bank's official app or the branch. Ask your bank directly.

Full guide: PAN Update Bank Account Block Scam: how it works, signs and what to do. Other channels: WhatsApp, email, phone call.

Questions