State Bank of India (SBI), the country’s largest public sector bank, has issued a strong warning about a rising wave of cyber frauds using artificial intelligence (AI). These scams use deepfake technology to create highly realistic videos, audio clips, and images to trick people into transferring money under pressure. With digital payments growing rapidly across India, the threat has become more serious and widespread.

The Growing Threat of Deepfake Fraud in India

Deepfakes are created using AI tools that can manipulate real photos, videos, and voices to look and sound genuine. Fraudsters misuse this technology to pretend to be family members, bank officials, senior colleagues, or trusted contacts. Victims are often told there is an emergency, such as a medical issue, legal trouble, or a blocked bank account, and are asked to act immediately.

As digital banking and UPI usage have expanded across the country, these scams have increased sharply. Many people, especially senior citizens and first-time digital users, are more vulnerable as deepfake content can be difficult to identify at first glance.

How Deepfake Scams Usually Work

These frauds follow a clear pattern. Scammers first collect personal information from social media and public platforms. They then use AI tools to create fake videos or voice messages that closely match a known person.

The victim receives an unexpected call, video, or message claiming urgency. Emotional pressure is applied to stop the person from verifying the request. Once trust is gained, victims are asked to share OTPs, UPI PINs, or transfer money. In many cases, funds are lost within minutes.

Key Safety Tips Shared by SBI

SBI has advised customers to remain alert and cautious at all times. Any request for urgent money transfers should be treated as suspicious. Customers should always verify requests through official channels or known contact numbers.

People should never share OTPs, PINs, CVV numbers, or click on unknown links or QR codes. Using strong security settings, avoiding public Wi-Fi for banking, and keeping devices protected with updated security software can also reduce risks. Educating family members, especially elders, is equally important.

What to Do If You Are Targeted

If fraud is suspected, immediate action is crucial. Victims should report the incident to the national cybercrime helpline 1930 or file a complaint on the cybercrime portal. Quick reporting increases the chances of recovering lost funds and helps authorities track fraud networks.

Read more: PIB Fact Check: Will Your SBI YONO App Be Blocked If Aadhaar Is Not Updated?

Conclusion

AI-driven deepfake scams are becoming more advanced and harder to detect. SBI’s advisory serves as a timely reminder that awareness and caution are the best defences. Staying alert, verifying information, and acting quickly can protect individuals and help build a safer digital banking environment in India.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.