SBI Credit Card Fraud: How to Report & Protect Yourself

SBI credit card fraud can happen in multiple ways, often without immediate detection. Understanding the common types can help you take preventive action early. These are:

Phishing Attacks

Fraudsters send fake emails or SMS messages pretending to be SBI Card, asking for sensitive details like OTPs or card numbers. Sharing such information can lead to complete account compromise.

Card Skimming

This occurs when your card data is copied at ATMs or POS machines using hidden devices. The stolen information is then used for unauthorised transactions.

Online Fraud

SBI credit card fraud frequently occurs during online transactions on unsecured or fake websites. Fraudsters may misuse saved card details or conduct transactions without OTP verification in some cases.

SIM Swap Fraud

Fraudsters duplicate your SIM card to gain access to OTPs and banking alerts, allowing them to complete transactions without your knowledge.

You can block or report fraudulent transactions carried out using your credit card by contacting SBI Card in various ways. Some of these are accessible 24/7 and offer you instant assistance, whether you want to report the transaction or block your card. Take a look at the details below:

1.Visit the Website

Visit the SBI Card website and log in using your registered mobile number or user credentials. Navigate to the ‘Disputes’ section, select the relevant transaction, and submit the details such as date, amount, and merchant name to raise a dispute.

2.Send an SMS

Send an SMS with the code BLOCK XXXX (XXXX = your card’s last 4 digits) to the dedicated number, 5676791. Ensure the SMS is sent from your registered mobile number for faster processing.

3.Send an Email

Send an email to customercare@sbicard.com to report unauthorised transactions. Make sure you add all relevant details, such as your credit card number, the date of the fraudulent transaction, proof of the transaction, and more. 

4.Call SBI Card’s Customer Support Team

Contact these numbers for immediate action:

• 1800 180 1290 (Toll-Free)

• 1860 500 1290

• 1860 180 1290

• 39 02 02 02 (Prefix local STD code)

5.Visit a Branch 

You may visit an SBI branch or contact SBI Card support, though services may vary. The executives at the help desk will be able to help you with raising a dispute and blocking your card.

On noticing fraudulent transactions on your SBI credit card statement or suspicious notifications, you can block your card to safeguard your finances. Follow these steps to do so via net banking:

1. Visit the official SBI Card website.

2. Click on ‘Login’ on the homepage and enter the required credentials.

3. Go to the 'Requests' tab and click on 'Report Lost/Stolen Card'. 

4. If you have multiple credit cards from SBI Card, you will see them here.

5. Select the one that you want to report/block after checking the details. 

6. Click ‘Submit’ to complete the process.

The YONO SBI app makes blocking your card easy and quick. If you have not registered on the mobile app, you can do it by following these steps:

1. Send an SMS with the code ‘MBSREG’ to 5676791.

2. You will receive a temporary User ID and MPIN through an SMS.

3. Download the YONO SBI app from the Google Play Store or the App Store.

4. Open the app and log in using the user ID and MPIN you received. 

5. Complete the process by changing the MPIN to secure the account.

If your mobile number is already registered, you can use it to block your credit card. Here is how:

1. Log in to the YONO SBI app.

2. Go to the 'Menu' and click on the 'Service Request' tab.

3. Click on 'Report Lost/Stolen' and choose the credit card you want to report. 

4. Submit your request by adding all the required details.

If you notice SBI credit card fraud, taking immediate action can prevent further losses and secure your legal protections under zero liability rules. Follow these steps:

• Block your card immediately: Use the YONO app, send an SMS (BLOCK XXXX to 5676791), or use net banking.

• Report via helpline: Call the SBI Card dedicated hotlines at 1800 180 1290, 1860 500 1290, or 39 02 02 02 (prefix your local STD code).

• Raise a formal dispute: Submit a Transaction Dispute Form (TDF) online via the SBI Card website or app.

• File a cyber complaint: Report the incident within 24 hours to the National Cyber Crime Portal on cybercrime.gov.in or call the national helpline at 1930 to get an acknowledgment number.

As per the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) safety mandates, a customer's financial liability is strictly capped based on reporting speed and the source of the breach:

• Zero Liability: You bear absolutely no financial loss if the fraud is due to a third-party system breach and you report it within 3 working days of receiving the transaction alert.

• Limited Liability (4 to 7 Days): If you delay reporting a third-party breach by 4 to 7 working days, your maximum financial liability is legally capped at ₹10,000. 

• Customer Negligence: If the fraud occurs because you shared your OTP, PIN, or CVV, you are fully liable for the financial loss only up to the moment you report it to SBI Card. Any fraudulent transactions occurring after you report it must be covered by the card issuer.

Preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorised charges on your account:

• Enable Domestic/International Controls: Use the SBI Card app to turn off international transactions or ATM withdrawals if you do not actively use them.

• Set Transaction Limits: Cap the maximum amount allowed per transaction for online e-commerce use.

• Protect Sensitive Credentials: Never share your OTP, PIN, or card CVV with anyone, including individuals claiming to call from SBI Card support.

• Monitor Alerts: Routinely audit your monthly credit card statements and ensure SMS/email alerts are active for every single transaction.

• Secure Browsing: Avoid logging into financial portals or making purchases while connected to public or unsecured Wi-Fi networks.