Act Within the First 30 Minutes
The faster you report banking fraud, the better your chances of recovering money. RBI guidelines give banks a liability framework based on how quickly you report.
Step 1 — Block your account immediately: Call your bank's 24/7 helpline or use the banking app to block your card and freeze transactions.
Step-by-Step Recovery Process
Step 2 — Change All Credentials
- Change your net banking password from a safe device
- Change your UPI PIN
- Change your ATM PIN
Step 3 — File a Complaint with Your Bank
- Call the bank helpline and get a complaint/reference number — save it
- Visit the branch and submit a written complaint with transaction details
- Email your bank's nodal officer (email listed on bank website)
Step 4 — File a Cybercrime Complaint
- Go to cybercrime.gov.in — available 24/7
- Call the National Cybercrime Helpline: 1930
- Provide transaction IDs, amounts, dates, and any screenshots
Step 5 — File an FIR (if needed)
- Visit your local police station for an FIR if the amount is significant
- This also helps when escalating to the banking ombudsman
RBI Rule: If the fraud is due to bank negligence (not your mistake), you have zero liability. If reported within 3 working days of receiving the transaction alert, your maximum liability is ₹5,000–₹10,000 depending on account type.
Escalation Path
- If bank doesn't resolve in 30 days → file with RBI Banking Ombudsman at cms.rbi.org.in
- You can also approach the consumer forum for compensation