Bank messages usually appear normal, so many people read them without checking details. However, cyber criminals now create fake SMS alerts that closely resemble genuine bank notifications.
Recently, two almost identical SMS messages arrived using SBI’s name. Both messages mentioned failed transaction alerts. However, one message was genuine, while the other was fake. The difference between both messages remained extremely small. Therefore, users must carefully verify every bank-related SMS before taking action.
Recently, Delhi University Finance Professor and SEBI-registered Investment Adviser Professor Vinni Arora shared a warning video. She posted the information through her Instagram profile @moneyvsme.
The video explained how users can identify whether a bank SMS link is genuine or fraudulent.
Check SMS headers through 1909 service
First, users should verify the sender header of any bank-related SMS. They can copy the sender header and check details through the 1909 service. For this, users can follow the format DETAILS OF [header]. The service can show whether the mentioned header has registration.
However, 1909 mainly helps users report unsolicited commercial communication. Therefore, users should not consider only this information as complete proof.
A registered header does not always guarantee that every message is genuine.
Verify sender details through TRAI Header Portal
Another method involves checking the sender header through TRAI’s SMS Header Information Portal. Users can visit smsheader.trai.gov.in and verify the sender information. The portal helps identify the entity behind commercial or government-awareness communication.
It also shows whether the header has proper registration. If a bank SMS uses an unregistered header, users should remain alert.
Similarly, a mismatch between the sender header and bank details can indicate a fake message.
Observe sender names carefully before trusting messages
According to TRAI rules, uppercase and lowercase letters matter in SMS headers. Even one changed letter can create a different sender identity. Cyber criminals use similar-looking characters to prepare fake messages. As a result, users may mistake fraudulent SMS alerts for genuine bank communication.
Therefore, checking every character in the sender name becomes necessary.
Never click suspicious banking links
SBI also advises users to avoid clicking links received through suspicious SMS or emails. Such links may relate to banking or financial activities. Additionally, users should never share OTP, PIN, passwords, or confidential banking details through unknown messages. If users worry about any transaction, they should avoid using SMS links or provided numbers. Instead, they should open the official banking app directly.
Furthermore, customers should contact official customer-care channels for transaction-related concerns.
