How to Stay Safe
from OTP Fraud?

Every year, millions of Indians fall victim to OTP fraud. Learn how this scam works — and how to protect yourself.

🛡 View Safety Tips 📞 Helpline 1930

How Does OTP Fraud Happen?

Scammers use different methods to steal your OTP. Recognise them and stay safe.

Fake Bank Officer Call

A scammer poses as a bank officer and calls you. They say "your account will be blocked" or "complete your KYC" — and ask for your OTP.

MOST COMMON

Screen Share Scam

They ask you to install AnyDesk or TeamViewer to "fix a problem" — then watch your screen and steal your OTP as it appears.

VERY DANGEROUS

SIM Swap Fraud

The fraudster gets a new SIM issued in your name. Your number gets deactivated and they start receiving your OTPs instead of you.

HIGH RISK

WhatsApp / SMS OTP Request

"An OTP was sent to your number by mistake, please share it with me" — this is a classic trick. Never do it.

COMMON TRICK

Police / CBI Impersonation

They pretend to be a police or CBI officer and threaten you with an "arrest warrant" — then ask for an OTP to "close the case".

DANGEROUS

OTP via Fake Link

They send a link to a fake bank website — as soon as you log in and enter the OTP, they gain access to your account.

PHISHING

🔐 Remember One Rule

OTP = Only For You. Never Share It With Anyone.

OTP stands for One Time Password — it is a one-time, private code meant only for you. When you share your OTP, you hand the scammer the key to your account.

7 Ways to Protect Yourself from OTP Fraud

Follow these simple steps — and stay safe from OTP fraud forever.

Never share your OTP — with anyone

Banks, Amazon, TRAI, police — nobody asks for your OTP. Hang up the call, ignore the message. This rule is 100% true, always.

Never install screen sharing apps

AnyDesk, TeamViewer, QuickSupport — if anyone claiming to be a "bank" or "support" asks you to install these, refuse immediately. It is a scam.

If your network suddenly goes off, call your bank

If your mobile network suddenly stops working, it could be a sign of SIM swap. Immediately inform your bank and telecom provider.

Check the SMS sender name

Genuine bank SMS senders look like "VM-SBIINB" or "AD-HDFCBK". An OTP SMS from a normal 10-digit number is fake.

Avoid the trap of fear and urgency

"Your account will be frozen if you don't act now" — this is emotional manipulation. A real bank never says this. Pause, think, then act.

Enable 2FA and app lock

Turn on extra authentication on your banking apps. Even if your OTP is compromised, a second layer of security will protect you.

If fraud happens — call 1930 within 30 minutes

The sooner you report, the higher the chance of recovering your money. Also call your bank immediately to freeze your account.

OTP Fraud — FAQ

What is OTP fraud?
OTP fraud happens when a scammer tricks you into sharing your OTP via a call, SMS, or WhatsApp. Once they have your OTP, they can withdraw money from your bank account or carry out transactions without your knowledge.
Does a bank ever ask for your OTP?
Absolutely not. No real bank, government body, TRAI, or telecom company ever asks for your OTP on a call or message. This rule never changes. If anyone asks — it is 100% fraud.
I accidentally shared my OTP — what should I do now?
Don't panic — act immediately: (1) Call your bank's 24-hour helpline and request them to freeze your account. (2) Call the National Cyber Crime Helpline on 1930. (3) Change all your banking passwords. The sooner you act, the higher the chances of recovering your money.
How does SIM swap fraud work?
The fraudster collects your personal details (name, Aadhaar) — then visits your telecom provider's store and gets a new SIM issued. Your number gets transferred to their SIM — so your bank's OTP goes to them, not you. If your phone's network suddenly disappears, call your telecom provider immediately.
Where do I report OTP fraud?
Call 1930 (National Cyber Crime Helpline) or file an online report at cybercrime.gov.in. Also inform your bank immediately to reverse any suspicious transactions. Reporting within 24 hours is the most effective.

🚨 Fallen Victim to OTP Fraud?

Don't panic. Act immediately — the sooner you do, the higher the chance of recovering your money.

📞 Call 1930 🌐 Report Online 🚨 Police 112