Retired banker in Hyderabad loses ₹12.99 lakh to fake PNB life certificate app

HYDERABAD: A retired bank employee from Barkatpura, Hyderabad, lost ₹12,99,300 in a cyber fraud on October 4, 2025, after clicking on a fake Facebook link claiming to facilitate online submission of a life certificate for Punjab National Bank (PNB) pensioners.

According to police, the victim received a call from a person posing as a PNB representative, who also contacted him through WhatsApp using a profile picture with the bank’s logo. The caller sent an APK file, instructing the pensioner to install it to complete the life certificate process. Believing it to be genuine, the victim installed the file.

Later, around 17.30 IST, the victim received multiple debit messages and discovered that a total of ₹12,99,300 had been withdrawn from three PNB savings accounts without his knowledge.

Cybercrime police issue public advisory

Following the incident, cybercrime authorities urged the public not to fall prey to similar online scams. In an advisory, officials emphasised that users should never click on links shared through Facebook, WhatsApp, SMS, or email that claim to represent banks or government services.

They further warned against downloading or installing APK files or other mobile applications from unofficial sources. Download legitimate banking applications only from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

“Banks never seek personal information, account details or one-time passwords (OTPs) through calls, messages, or social media,” officials said.

The advisory also asked citizens to report suspicious links or calls immediately to their bank’s official helpline and block accounts or cards if necessary. Users were advised to uninstall suspicious applications and run a mobile antivirus scan.

Where to report cyber frauds

Victims of online scams can report incidents by calling the 1930 helpline or visiting www.cybercrime.gov.in. In Hyderabad, emergencies related to cyber fraud can also be reported via WhatsApp at 8712665171.

For regular updates on cyber awareness, citizens can follow the Hyderabad Cybercrime Police on:

• Facebook: facebook.com/cybercrimepshyd

• Instagram: instagram.com/cybercrimepshyd

• X (Twitter): x.com/CyberCrimeshyd