New Delhi,nov 14
India’s financial ecosystem is evolving and experiencing a major shift in the way customers transact, from UPI and card payments to the increasing use of e-commerce platforms and retail outlets. Whether it is shopping for jewellery, upgrading lifestyle essentials, booking travel experiences, or exploring electronic gadgets, customers are constantly seeking the best deals, across both retail and e-commerce. Growing consumer preference for digital-first experiences, coupled with the convenience of instant transactions, continues to shape spending behaviour, with ecommerce remaining the dominant channel by value, contributing 66.4% of total credit card spends in September 2025 (Source: ET BFSI.). With growing adoption of digital payment methods such as UPI, credit cards, and digital wallets, it becomes vital for customers to remain aware during the online transactions, while making the most of offers and deals, and enjoy a safe & seamless payment experience. As part of International Fraud Awareness Week, SBI Card, India’s largest pure-play credit card player, urges customers to stay vigilant across all types of financial transactions and follow some safety tips to shop confidently and securely. Shop Only on Trusted Platforms: Always purchase from official brand websites or reputable marketplaces. Avoid clicking on random links or attachments from fake websites shared via social media or messaging apps, as they are a common gateway for digital frauds.Prevent Screen Sharing Fraud: Individuals should avoid sharing screens of their device such as laptops, desktops, and mobile phones to any unknown person. Avoid downloading any third-party application and APK files on your device that might give access to your personal and financial information, leading to possible scams.Verify Deals/Offers: Be cautious with unrealistic discounts, refund notifications, and fraudulent deals, especially on high-value items. Verify offers directly with the brand before making payment.Be Cautious while redeeming reward points: Check the authenticity of SMS, e-mails, calls asking to redeem reward points by clicking on a link & sharing personal/credit card details.Transaction Alerts: To keep track of purchase spends real time, enable SMS or app notifications for every transaction. This ensures you to detect and act on any unauthorised activity immediately.Be Alert to Phishing Attempts: Stay alert to phishing emails, messages and calls claiming your account is suspended, points/offers are about to expire or fake delivery updates. Always verify any changes in account details with official customer care representatives. Genuine banks and credit card issuers never ask for confidential details like (OTP,CVV,PIN, Passwords, etc.) or messages from the cardholder. Keep Devices & Apps Updated: Regular device software updates strengthen security by fixing gaps. Enabling multi-factor authentication as well as ensuring your phone, browser, and payment apps are running the latest versions to guard against malware. Never download mobile apps from unverified links/sources.Aways opt for Strong Password: It is extremely important to update account password regularly.
