Cyber Fraud Rising in Nepal: Fake “Your Bank Account Is Locked” Messages Stealing Users’ Money
Cybercriminals are targeting mobile banking and digital wallet users through fake messages impersonating services like Connect IPS, leading to unauthorized access to bank accounts and financial theft.
Cyber fraud cases targeting mobile banking, internet banking, and digital wallet users are rapidly increasing in Nepal, prompting the Nepal Police Cyber Bureau to issue a public warning urging citizens to remain highly cautious.
According to the Cyber Bureau, criminal groups have been sending fake messages using names and branding similar to popular digital payment services such as Connect IPS. The messages typically claim that the recipient’s bank account has been locked and instruct users to click a link to restore access.
Many users mistake the messages for legitimate notifications and click on the suspicious links. However, once opened, the links reportedly collect personal information, banking credentials, and sensitive data, allowing cybercriminals to gain unauthorized access to users’ bank accounts and steal money.
Police say the scam is spreading in an organized manner as the use of mobile banking, online payments, and digital wallets continues to grow across the country.
The Cyber Bureau has advised the public not to click on suspicious links, to use only official banking apps and websites for transactions, and never to share OTP codes, passwords, or banking details with anyone. Authorities have also urged users to immediately report any suspicious activity to the police, Cyber Bureau, or their respective banks.
Meanwhile, police have arrested four individuals accused of carrying out fraud using the Cyber Bureau’s name. The arrested suspects include Deepak Limbu from Dhankuta, Saurav Bhujel and Sajal Rai from Dharan, and Srijan Thapa from Inaruwa.
According to investigators, the group allegedly manipulated caller identification services such as Truecaller to display “Cyber Bureau” while contacting victims. They reportedly used fear tactics, threats, and false promises to pressure victims into transferring money.
Police stated that technical investigations confirmed their involvement, and further investigation is currently underway under electronic fraud-related charges.
Authorities say the growing misuse of digital technology has increased cybercrime risks significantly, making public awareness and caution more important than ever.