How the WhatsApp ‘NO’ scam allegedly works
According to Sajjanar, scammers first send a WhatsApp message from an unknown number claiming that money has been debited from the recipient’s bank account. A second message then asks the person to reply ‘NO’ if they did not authorise the transaction.
The commissioner warned that responding could expose you to malware, potentially allowing criminals to gain access to your devices and financial information. He advised people not to reply ‘YES’ or ‘NO’ to unfamiliar messages about banking transactions.
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Instead, you should open your bank’s official app or net-banking website to check whether a debit has actually occurred. Avoid opening unexpected attachments or downloading files from unknown senders, and contact the bank through its verified customer-care number if anything appears suspicious.
What should you do if you receive such a message?
Do not panic or respond to the sender. Block the number, preserve relevant evidence if needed, and verify the transaction directly with your bank. A WhatsApp message alone is not proof that money has been deducted.
If you suspect that you have lost money to cyber fraud, call India’s cybercrime helpline at 1930 immediately and report the incident at cybercrime.gov.in. Quick reporting may help authorities and banks act on fraudulent transactions at earliest.
Stay cautious: never let an unexpected message rush you into making a financial decision.