Core Viewpoint - The Press Information Bureau (PIB) has issued a warning to State Bank of India (SBI) customers regarding a fraudulent message circulating online that prompts users to download an APK file to redeem SBI rewards [1][2]. Group 1: Fraudulent Activity - The fraudulent message claims that SBI net banking reward points worth ₹9,980 will expire and urges customers to install an app to redeem these points [3]. - PIB has reiterated that SBI does not send links or APK files via SMS or WhatsApp, advising users to avoid downloading unknown files or clicking on suspicious links [2][4]. Group 2: Previous Warnings - This is not the first instance of such scams, as both SBI and PIB have previously issued warnings to alert customers about similar fraudulent activities [3][4]. - SBI had released a similar warning just a month prior, emphasizing the need for customers to be cautious about online scams [4]. Group 3: Rising Online Fraud Cases - Online fraud incidents have become increasingly common, with fraudsters continuously finding new methods to exploit customers through messages, links, and phone calls [5]. - According to Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data, bank frauds surged to ₹36,014 crore in 2024-25, marking a 194% increase compared to the previous year [6]. Group 4: Collaborative Efforts to Combat Fraud - In response to the rising cases of fraud, various stakeholders including regulators, banks, payment platforms, tech companies, card firms, and telecom companies are collaborating to develop systems aimed at preventing scams and apprehending perpetrators [7].