Hyderabad: SBI Staff Saves Customer from Cyber Fraud
Staff at the State Bank of India (SBI) Clock Tower branch in Mahabubnagar saved a customer from a cyber fraud on Thursday. M Anitha, a senior associate at the branch, played a key role in preventing the customer from losing Rs 4.20 lakh.
The customer had come to the branch to request a transfer of Rs 4.20 lakh and submitted an RTGS form at the counter. When Anitha asked about the reason for the transfer, the customer seemed nervous and confused. He was unable to explain clearly and was mumbling. Sensing something was wrong, Anitha took the customer to the Chief Manager, Shushma Indla.
The Chief Manager asked the customer to calm down and sit. However, the customer could barely speak and pointed to a mobile phone in his shirt pocket. Realizing this might be a case of fraud, the Chief Manager asked further questions. It became clear that the customer was a victim of a “digital arrest” scam, where fraudsters use WhatsApp video calls to trick people.
The Chief Manager quickly acted by asking the customer for KYC documents and placing a hold on the account to stop any transfer. The local police were immediately informed, and within 10 minutes, officers from One Town Police Station arrived at the bank.
After speaking with the customer, the police took him to the Cyber Cell Office. The Cyber Police contacted the fraudster and lodged a formal complaint. The customer then understood that he had been targeted by cybercriminals. He returned to the bank later and thanked the SBI staff for saving his money and protecting him from the scam.
SBI advises all customers to report any suspicious activities or fraud immediately. They can do so by calling 1930 or filing a complaint on the government website, www.cybercrime.gov.in.
