In the past few days, a message has been circulating on social media and WhatsApp claiming that SBI YONO accounts will be blocked if customers do not update their Aadhaar.
The message asks users to download an APK file to update Aadhaar details. This has created fear among many YONO users.
However, the truth is completely different. PIB Fact Check has confirmed that this message is fake and fraudulent, created to steal users’ data.
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What Was Claimed in the Viral Message?
The fake message, pretending to be from SBI, said:
“Your YONO account will be blocked starting tonight because your Aadhaar is not updated.”
The message also includes an APK file named “SBI KYC Aadhaar Update.apk”.
Scammers want users to install this file so they can access banking information, passwords, OTPs, and UPI PINs from their phones.
What Did PIB Fact Check Reveal?
PIB Fact Check clearly stated that the message is totally fake.
Important points from PIB:
SBI never sends APK files through WhatsApp, SMS, or email.
SBI also warned customers on its official Twitter account to avoid clicking on suspicious links, emails, or APK files.
How Aadhaar or KYC Is Actually Updated in SBI
If you really need to update Aadhaar or complete KYC, you can do it through legal and secure channels:
By visiting the nearest SBI branch
Through the secure section of SBI’s official website or the YONO app
By visiting a UIDAI-authorized Aadhaar center
SBI never asks customers to install unknown APK files, click on suspicious links, or share documents through WhatsApp.
Why This Fake Message Is Dangerous
Cybercriminals often use such fake messages to trap people.
APK apps sent by scammers may contain:
Spyware
Malware
Keyloggers
These can steal:
Banking passwords
UPI PIN
OTPs
Debit/credit card details
Contacts, photos, and other phone data
Once the phone is hacked, scammers can misuse accounts like YONO, Paytm, GPay, and other UPI apps.
How to Protect Yourself from Such Scams
Bank customers should follow these safety tips:
Do not download unknown APK files or apps
Avoid clicking on suspicious SBI or Aadhaar links received via WhatsApp, SMS, or social media
Report messages received from unknown numbers
Disable installation from Unknown Sources on your phone
Never share Aadhaar number, bank details, or OTP with anyone
SBI’s Warning to Customers
SBI advises that if any customer receives such a message, they should immediately report it to:
???? report.phishing@sbi.co.in
SBI also reminded users that the bank never asks for OTP, PIN, password, card details, or Aadhaar details.
Can YONO Actually Get Blocked?
YONO may be blocked only in genuine situations, such as:
Multiple wrong password entries
Failure to complete KYC after official notice
Suspicious activity detected in your account
But YONO will not be blocked because of not updating Aadhaar through any link or APK. The viral message is completely false.
About the Author
Himani Gupta
Himani Gupta, from Delhi, has nearly 10 years of media experience. She works as a Deputy Content Producer in the gadgets section at Live Hindustan. She has also worked with Network18 and other organizations.
She studied at Maharaja Agrasen University and Indraprastha University. She has expertise in Google Analytics and social media, and has worked as a social media manager.
In her free time, she enjoys cooking and watching movies. She believes in learning something new every day.