What is KYC Fraud?
Scammers pose as bank officials, telecom company representatives, or government agents claiming your KYC is "expired" or "incomplete." They then collect your Aadhaar, PAN, or bank details to commit fraud or take over your accounts.
Critical fact: KYC is a one-time process done at your bank branch. Banks will NEVER ask you to complete KYC via SMS links, phone calls, or third-party apps.
Common KYC Scam Scenarios
- SMS saying "Your account will be closed — complete KYC via this link"
- Call from someone claiming to be your bank's KYC department
- WhatsApp message asking you to send a photo of your Aadhaar or PAN
- Requests to install apps like AnyDesk or TeamViewer for "KYC verification"
Never install screen-sharing apps at someone's request — these give scammers full control of your phone and access to your banking apps.
How Real KYC Works
- Done in person at your bank branch
- Or through your bank's official app with a verified video KYC process
- Bank sends a physical letter or official in-app notification — never a random SMS link
If You've Already Shared Details
- Call your bank immediately to flag the account
- Report to cybercrime.gov.in with all details of the conversation
- Consider locking your Aadhaar via UIDAI's website (myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in)