RBI Compensation and Unclaimed Money Scam over the phone

How it looks over the phone, the red flags and what to do.

A phone call lets the scammer talk fast, sound confident and keep you from thinking. The caller ID can be faked, so it proves nothing. RBI Compensation and Unclaimed Money Scam is one of the ways this shows up: A message claims RBI or a bank owes you compensation or unclaimed money and asks for a fee, tax or account details to release it.

What rbi compensation and unclaimed money scam looks like over the phone

• Instructions to install a screen-sharing app or to press keys on the phone.
• A second "senior officer" who takes over the call.
• An unknown or international number, or a number that looks like a real office.

The scammer makes a document with a logo, a stamp and a signature, and sends it by email or chat. It says that you are due a large sum, such as Rs 25 lakh, because of a banking error, a lapsed policy or a global fund. The document includes a case number and a contact person, which are made up, and tells you that a quick reply is needed.

Red flags to check on the phone call

• A large unexpected compensation or award is offered.
• A fee or tax is needed before payment.
• The message arrives by chat or free email, not through a bank.
• You are asked for ID and bank details in reply.
• You are told to keep the call secret.
• The caller wants you to install an app to "fix" something.

What to do

1. Do not reply and do not pay any fee.
2. Do not send your ID or bank details.
3. Ask your own bank about any claim through the number on your card.
4. Never share an OTP or PIN. No genuine staff member needs it.
5. If you already installed an app on the call, uninstall it and switch on airplane mode, then call your bank at once.
6. Tell a family member and report the number on the Sanchar Saathi portal (Chakshu facility).

Report the number on the Sanchar Saathi portal (Chakshu facility). If money moved, call 1930 immediately.

If money or a code is already gone

1. Call 1930 and give the payment details.
2. Tell your bank on the number printed on your card or passbook.
3. Keep copies of what you sent and watch for accounts or loans in your name.
4. Report at https://cybercrime.gov.in with the documents and chat.

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

Safeavio's scam check works on the message you paste or share and shows plain reasons such as a prize or windfall claim, an advance fee and fake authority. Money Shield asks you to verify before paying a stranger. It cannot check whether an unclaimed deposit exists, so ask your own bank directly through official channels. Ask your bank. Use official channels.

Full guide: RBI Compensation and Unclaimed Money Scam: how it works, signs and what to do. Other channels: email, WhatsApp, SMS.

Questions