Fraudsters exploit the urgency often associated with OTPs for day-to-day services like delivery, and dupe customers into sharing banking-transaction-OTPs, thereby exposing their account savings to the risk of fraud. 

Airtel’s new AI-powered system identifies such potentially risky situations and warns the customers involved. Whenever a bank OTP is detected during a potentially risky incoming call, Airtel intervenes with a fraud alert check to the customer about the potential risk of giving consent for a banking transaction OTP to be delivered while they are still on the call. This powerful combination of AI-driven intelligence and human judgment gives customers the crucial time they need to think, verify, and stay firmly in control of their security, effectively closing the gap scammers exploit.

Commenting on the initiative, Shashwat Sharma, Managing Director & CEO, Airtel,  India, said, “We are on a mission to make Airtel the safe network. While working towards this, we have realised that despite the foundational role played by One-Time Passwords (OTPs) in securing digital transactions, their efficacy is frequently being undermined by criminal tactics. We are, therefore, pleased to announce a significant advancement in Airtel’s network layer that is designed to strengthen protection against banking fraud. 

Our newly developed, AI-powered, autonomous solution operates proactively at the network level and is engineered to detect and intervene against fraudulent activity in real-time. Extensive trials have demonstrated a remarkable level of accuracy and impact in preventing the menace of such scams.”

Over the past two years, Airtel has rolled out AI-powered, tech-led safeguards like spam-call warnings and malicious link-blocking to stop fraud at the source. While it has succeeded in its efforts to reduce fraud on its network to a great extent, fraudsters have continued to exploit human vulnerabilities through impersonation and social engineering. This breakthrough feature, designed to protect mobile phone users, is yet another step to protect its customers from digital fraud.

This solution is already live in Haryana, and Airtel will roll it out to 100% of its customers over the next two weeks.

The post Airtel Introduces AI-Driven Solution to Combat OTP Leakage Fraud appeared first on NRI News.

The ‘Lock FD’ is a new security feature for safeguarding the customers’ Term Deposits from Digital Frauds by allowing customers to restrict FD closures through digital means. Customers who opt for this feature will have to visit the branch for the premature closure of their FD. The option for premature closure from digital channels will not be available once the deposit is locked. This in-branch verification with stringent identity checks reduces the risk of unauthorized access. This functionality is especially beneficial for customers who may be less familiar with digital platforms and are more susceptible to digital fraud.

Sameer Shetty, Group Executive – Digital Business, Transformation & Strategic Programs, Axis Bank, said,

“At Axis Bank, we have been continuously investing in a digital-first proposition that focuses on secure and seamless banking experiences. In this endeavour, we are excited to introduce ‘Lock FD’ that reflects our proactive response to the rising tide of digital fraud. This feature empowers customers to safeguard their term deposits from unauthorized digital access and enables us to provide security to the customer’s money by blocking alternative means of siphoning off funds by fraudsters.”

The ‘Lock FD’ feature is available to all Axis Bank customers and can be activated through the Axis Bank mobile app or any branch. Axis Bank has also recently launched the ‘In-App Mobile OTP’ feature on its mobile app to enhance authentication security and protect customers from rising OTP-related fraud and scams. These initiatives align with the Bank’s strategy to enhance customers’ digital experience while combating digital fraud, positioning it as a leader in banking security.

To know more about the feature: Click here

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The #SEBIvsSCAM campaign comes at a critical time when digital financial fraud is on the rise, with fraudsters using increasingly sophisticated and deceptive methods to target investors. From fake trading apps and deepfake videos to unregistered investment advisors and misleading stock tips on social media, scammers are exploiting technology and denting investors’ trust. Many individuals (#SEBIvsSCAM) fall prey to schemes promising guaranteed returns/unusually high returns, pump-and-dump tactics, dabba trading, fraudulent foreign portfolio investment offers, etc, often resulting in significant financial losses.

#SEBIvsSCAM seeks to raise public awareness, promote safe investing habits, and empower investors to make informed decisions. By spotlighting common scams and offering guidance, the campaign aims to help investors recognize warning signs, verify sources, and report suspicious activities—ultimately contributing to a more secure and transparent financial ecosystem.

To ensure maximum outreach (#SEBIvsSCAM), NSE, under the aegis of SEBI, will leverage a mix of media platforms, including television, radio, print, digital, and social media. We will also spread the Investor Awareness (#SEBIvsSCAM) messages through Investor Awareness Programs, which are done through physical, digital, and hybrid modes. This multi-channel approach is designed to reach investors across urban and rural areas, in multiple languages and through formats that are accessible and engaging to diverse audiences.

Investor Advisory: Stay Alert, Stay Protected

•      Do not fall for promises of assured or fixed returns in the securities market. Such offers are illegal and misleading.

•      Avoid unsolicited messages from unknown sources. Always verify information through official websites such as SEBI, NSE, or the concerned company.

•      Do not download unregulated apps or join chat groups offering investment advice.

•      Engage only with SEBI-registered intermediaries or research analysts. Verify their credentials at: https://www.sebi.gov.in/sebiweb/other/OtherAction.do?doRecognised=yes   

•      Download trading apps only from SEBI-registered trading members via official app stores. Verify apps https://www.nseindia.com/trade/members-compliance/list-of-mobile-applications

•      Transfer funds only to registered client bank accounts of your stockbroker. Verify account details at https://enit.nseindia.com/MemDirWeb/form/tradingMemberLocator_beta.jsp

•      From October 1, 2025, investors will be able to make payments to SEBI-registered intermediaries using a standardized UPI handle format (e.g., abc.brk@validbank).

•      Report any fraudulent activity at www.cybercrime.gov.in  or call the Cybercrime Helpline at 1930. For investor support, contact NSE at 1800 266 0050.

Issued in public interest by the National Stock Exchange of India Ltd under the aegis of the Securities and Exchange Board of India.

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Automatically enabled for all Airtel mobile and broadband customers, the advanced system scans and filters links across SMS, WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook, Instagram, email, and other browsers. It leverages real-time threat intelligence to examine over 1 billion URLs daily and blocks access to harmful sites in under 100 milliseconds.

For instance, if a resident in Pune receives a suspicious message that reads: “Your package is delayed. Track it here: http://www.tracky0urparcell.com”. And if the unsuspecting resident then clicks on the link, Airtel’s system also clicks into gear. It instantly scans the link and if flagged as suspicious, it blocks access. The user is redirected to a warning message that reads: “Blocked! Airtel found this site dangerous!” All this instantaneously. This real-time interception prevents users from falling victim to all kinds of fraud.

Commenting on the initiative, George Mathen, CEO – Maharashtra and Goa, Bharti Airtel, said, “At Airtel, our commitment lies in protecting customers from all varieties of fraud. By merging our network with an AI-based fraud detection solution, we are making certain that our customers are defended against all emerging threats without requiring any effort on their part. We believe it is imperative to take steps today to secure the digital future, and we are proud to be pioneers in this field by providing a comprehensive and safer network for our customers in Maharashtra and Goa.”

With Maharashtra and Goa ranked as one of India’s most digitally advanced states, the threat of online fraud has grown in both its urban and rural regions. Fraudsters increasingly target users through phishing links, fake deliveries, and spurious banking alerts. Cities like Satara, Nashik, Amravati, Ahilyanagar, Chandrapur, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and Akola — as well as remote towns like Jamgaon, Ghoti, Sultanpur, Tippeshwar, among others— have seen a sharp rise in such fraudulent attempts. Airtel’s solution acts as a statewide digital shield, protecting families, senior citizens, homemakers, students, and first-time smartphone users alike.

The AI-driven platform delivers fraud warnings in the user’s preferred language, including Marathi, making it highly effective for the state’s diverse population. This multilingual support is especially impactful in districts with low digital literacy or where English is not widely used.

The solution operates silently in the background, requires no installation, and is offered free of cost. Maharashtra and Goa at the forefront of digital adoption — from online banking to government e-services — and Airtel’s initiative plays a critical role in creating a safer digital ecosystem across the state. Whether it’s a working professional in Satara, a homemaker in Nashik, a tourist in Goa, or a student in Ahilyanagar, Airtel helps make every digital interaction safer.

The post Airtel Shields 2 Lakh Customers from Online Fraud in Maharashtra and Goa appeared first on NRI News.

The risk management solution was successfully piloted on motor theft claims by Clearspeed and ICICI Lombard. Motor theft is a sizeable issue in the Indian market, and some fraudsters use this opportunity to lodge fraudulent claims.

Nazeem Khan – Head – ICLM, Motor Third Party Claims & Litigation, ICICI Lombard, said, “This partnership with Clearspeed aligns perfectly with ICICI Lombard’s fraud prevention model that we have been developing and refining for several years. By integrating Clearspeed’s new approach to risk assessment with our extensive experience in the Indian insurance market, we are taking a significant step toward addressing fraudulent claims while ensuring our customers with genuine claims receive timely settlements.”

Clearspeed’s revolutionary approach to risk assessment differs fundamentally from traditional methods. Unlike traditional risk assessment methods that rely on extensive documentation validation, subjective evaluations, and lengthy processing times, Clearspeed’s solution is:

• Fast – providing real-time insights to enable quicker settlements
• Bias-free – operates independently of historical data or predictive models
• Frictionless – removes cumbersome steps for genuine customers

“We are excited to partner with ICICI Lombard to address its challenges unique to the Indian market,” said Alex Martin, CEO, Clearspeed. “We have supported some of the largest global insurance carriers in the U.K. and the U.S., delivering an overall reduction of 50% in average claims handling time and a 40% increase in immediate settlements to claimants. We look forward to helping ICICI Lombard unlock this type of efficiency while maintaining their excellent customer experience ratings.”

The initial focus of this partnership will be motor theft claims, which will benefit from expedited processing, with the collaboration slated to expand across additional insurance lines as the partnership evolves.

The post ICICI Lombard and Clearspeed Join Forces Through Aelius to Combat Claims Fraud in India appeared first on NRI News.

Growing Adoption of UPI and the Need for Digital Safety

Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has become a key driver of digital transactions in India, accounting for 83% of total payment volume in CY-2024. In January 2025, UPI processed 16.99 billion transactions, reflecting a 39% year-on-year growth in volume and a 28% year-on-year growth increase in transaction value. Over the past five years, UPI adoption has soared at a CAGR of 74%, making it the largest retail payment system in transaction volume. Since its inception, UPI has onboarded over 460 million unique users, facilitating digital transactions across various segments.

NPCI’s Multi-Layered Security Framework

UPI stands out not only for its convenience but also for its robust security framework, which ensures the integrity of every transaction. NPCI employs advanced protocols and stringent safeguards such as device binding. The feature links a user’s account to a specific mobile device, ensuring that a third party cannot access it without the registered mobile device. Furthermore, UPI incorporates a two-factor authentication that requires users to verify their identity using their mobile number and the user’s UPI PIN before authorizing any transaction.

Consumer Advisory: How to Stay Safe?

While UPI is equipped with robust security features, fraudsters continue to exploit social engineering tactics. Consumers must remain cautious of scams.

NPCI advises all UPI users to follow the ‘Stop, Think, Act’ principle:

• STOP before responding to unexpected calls, messages, or emails requesting personal or banking details
• THINK and verify requests by checking official sources such as company websites or customer service helplines
• ACT wisely by avoiding suspicious requests and immediately reporting fraud attempts to the relevant authorities

How to Report a Fraud?

Users who suspect fraud should report incidents immediately. Suspicious cases can be reported to the national cybercrime helpline (1930) or through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (https://cybercrime.gov.in). The user should also report the case to their bank. Additionally, users should save messages, take screenshots, and document interactions to help authorities take action.

By staying informed and alert, users can enjoy the convenience of digital payments while keeping their money safe. UPI is committed to ensuring a secure and seamless digital payment experience for everyone across India.

Do’s & Don’ts for UPI users

Do’s

• Ensure your mobile number is registered in the bank’s records
• Always check the UPI app prompt notifications during transactions
• Enter UPI PIN only for payments
• Report fraud or suspicious transactions only with your bank or the police
• Obtain bank contact details only from its official website – avoid search engines

Don’ts

• Never forward an SMS or OTP if asked by an unknown person
• Keep your debit card details and UPI PIN confidential
• Never download any unknown app, especially remote access apps, unless fully verified
• Do not share your transaction details on social media

The post How NPCI’s ‘Stop, Think, Act’ Campaign Protects Consumers appeared first on NRI News.

INDIA: Protectt.ai, a leader in Mobile App Security in India and an innovative cyber security firm delivering RASP (Runtime mobile App Self Protection) Mobile App Security XDR platform, has announced the launch of ApiProtectt. It offers advanced protection features specifically designed to safeguard Banking and Financialmobile application APIs against evolving cyber threats and data leakage.

In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, securing APIs is paramount to protecting sensitive data and maintaining the integrity of Mobile Apps. APIs serve as the backbone of mobile applications, enabling seamless communication between the client and server. 

API vulnerabilities can serve as entry points for fraud and data leakage, posing significant risks to both businesses and customer trust. ApiProtectt provides seamless Mobile App API protection preventing unauthorized access, securing data transmission, and mitigating risks associated with cyber-attacks. By prioritizing API security, businesses can protect themselves against fraudulent activities and data breaches, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and maintaining the integrity of their digital ecosystem.

Key Features of ApiProtectt Include:

• Real-Time Threat Detection: Advanced monitoring and analytics to identify and respond to security threats instantly.
• Comprehensive Protection: Defense against common threats such as data breaches, malware, and fraud.
• API Protection: Secure APIs with advanced threat detection, behavioral analysis, and continuous monitoring to prevent unauthorized access and data breaches.
• Bot Mitigation: Detect and block malicious bots with sophisticated algorithms, protecting against automated attacks and ensuring legitimate traffic.
• Enhanced Security Protocols: Secure communication channels, encryption, and access controls to protect sensitive information.
• User-Friendly Interface: Easy integration and management to streamline security operations for businesses of all sizes.

“Our mission has always been to set new standards in mobile app security”, said Manish Mimani, Founder & CEO of Protectt.ai. “With the launch of ApiProtectt, we are reinforcing our commitment to providing state-of-the-art security that protects our clients’ mobile applications from evolving Mobile Cyber Threats. We are excited to offer ApiProtectt to our clients and partners, equipping them with the tools they need to ensure their mobile apps are secure and resilient to protect against data breaches and frauds.”

Protectt.ai continuously takes steps ahead in innovation, ensuring that mobile app security remains robust and adaptive to emerging cyber threats. By providing cutting-edge solutions like ApiProtectt, Protectt.ai empowers banks, financial institutions, and other critical sectors to serve their customers better. This commitment to innovation not only enhances the security of mobile applications but also helps these organizations build trust and reliability with their clients by safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring seamless and secure digital transactions.

The post Protectt.ai Launches ApiProtectt appeared first on NRI News.

However, the rise in digital payments has also led to a rise in online fraud. In the past three years alone, online scams have caused a collective loss of Rs. 1.25 lakh crore. In response, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has established various committees focused on protecting individuals and businesses, and the financial sector is increasingly turning to cutting-edge technology to tackle these threats.

Technology plays a crucial role in safeguarding businesses from online fraud while enabling them to benefit from the country’s growing digital economy.

Akash Sinha, CEO & Co-Founder, of Cashfree Payments, said, “In today’s digital landscape, prioritizing safety and security against fraudulent transactions is crucial for businesses to avoid financial losses and protect their reputation. Leveraging technology-driven innovations that use AI and ML algorithms can significantly enhance defenses against fraud. These advanced solutions are transforming the security framework for online transactions in India, providing merchants with unmatched protection and peace of mind.”

Today, secure payment solutions are required to protect businesses from fraud-related losses and build trust with customers.

“Many businesses either overlook the importance of fraud and risk detection tools or use ones that can’t stop fraudulent transactions in real time. Additionally, creating effective fraud solutions often requires special certifications. However, it’s crucial to recognize that when customers feel secure about their transactions, they’re more likely to make repeat purchases and recommend the business to others, which drives growth.”, Akash added.

Payment solutions that are technology-driven have complete risk management capabilities.  Data security measures like encryption and tokenization ensure that all customer data is protected, reducing the chances of data breaches. Furthermore, robust risk management systems can assist companies in meeting regulatory obligations, thereby reducing additional risks.

Sinha further said, “At Cashfree Payments, we have built ‘RiskShield’ through extensive research to provide businesses with a comprehensive risk management solution to combat cybercrime. Designed to address issues such as high chargebacks and fraud, RiskShield is effective across various sectors including financial services, e-commerce, and travel. Utilizing advanced AI and ML algorithms, RiskShield helps businesses reduce fraudulent activities by up to 40%.”

In the modern business world, companies can only succeed if they begin to invest in sophisticated fraud detection systems, secure payment gateway technologies, and extensive customer verification procedures.

The post The Role of Technology in Preventing Fraud and Accelerating Business Development appeared first on NRI News.

MUMBAI: In a shocking turn of events in the city, CA Amber Dalal of Ritz Consultancy has absconded, leaving hundreds of investors thronging the Oshiwara Police Station as a Ponzi fraud of over Rs 1000 crores comes to light.

The fraud, involving over 900 investors, came to light last evening after an FIR was filed against Chartered Accountant Amber Dalal under his company name Ritz Consultancy. His modus operandi was to lure investors by promising a 2% return per month with a legal guarantee of capital safety, resulting in large numbers of investors and senior citizens investing in his company. The matter came to light after investors did not receive their payment for March and started inquiring about the same.

They were then informed by Amber Dalal’s family that he had been missing since March 14th, 10 am, and they had already filed a missing report with the Oshiwara Police Station. The case is being investigated by Sr PI Mohan Patil.

The post Mumbai-based CA Ambar Dalal Absconds Ponzi Fraud Of Rs 1000+ Crores appeared first on NRI News.

CHENNAI: Matrimony.com, India’s biggest matchmaking service, has launched a ‘Safe Matrimony’ campaign aimed at increasing awareness among people about the modus operandi used by frauds in the online world to extract money.  Ace actor Vidya Balan who is known to stand up for social causes will be the face of the campaign.  The matchmaking platform, after in-depth industry analysis, has identified certain common frauds like – Fake Customs Fee, Emergency cash requirements, Cash on Delivery, and Sextortion which are regularly used by fraudsters to dupe people on matrimonial sites across India.

Speaking about the need to launch the Safe Matrimony campaign, Murugavel Janakiraman, Chairman and Managing Director, Matrimony.com said, “The digital economy is growing, and so have online frauds. While millions of people have benefited from online matrimony services a very small fraction of the population has experienced fraudulent activity. We at matrimony.com take multiple steps to ensure our platform remains free of such fraudsters. It is important members exercise caution and remain vigilant. While we have been running Safe Matrimony awareness programs for a while now, it’s important that we further amplify it to ensure our members or for that matter anyone using any matrimonial service have a safe and pleasant online experience.”

Matrimony.com has found four types of online fraud 

• Emergency cash requirement – where the fraud asks for cash stating an emergency. 
• Fake customs Fee – where the fraud requests a fake customs fee to be paid to receive a gift
• Cash on Delivery – Here, the fraud sends an item, asks the other person to pay, poses as if a wrong item has been delivered and gets the money credited to his account.
• Sextortion – The fraud asks the other person to view online obscene content and then starts blackmailing to pay money. 

In the campaign video, Vidya Balan talks about these frauds explaining the importance of being vigilant in the digital world and the methods to stay safe. Also, the steps matrimony.com takes like allowing only mobile verified profiles, displaying government ID verified member badges, and use of AI to weed out suspicious profiles.

This visual campaign is an initiative by Matrimony.com to guide customers to stay safe in the digital world and create awareness about safety while using the matchmaking ecosystem.

The post MATRIMONY.COM LAUNCHES ‘SAFE MATRIMONY’ TO FIGHT ONLINE FRAUD, ROPES IN ACTOR VIDYA BALAN  appeared first on NRI News.