New Delhi, 13 November 2025: 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. Always choose a strong and
unique password that is different from your e-mail / social media account
passwords. Never share your password with anyone.
- Never
Share Confidential Information:
Individuals should never share card details, PIN, OTP, or CVV, with anyone
and always verify the authenticity of any call, email, or message before
proceeding with transactions. Never share your card details or phone
number while raising complaint/query on social media platforms.
- Be
Vigilant of Payment Fraud: In case you
receive any unverified payment or refund reflecting your account, check
your account if the amount is credited before taking any
action.
As
the payments landscape continues to evolve, convenience must
go hand-in-hand with caution. By staying informed, verifying
transactions, and practising safe payment habits, customers can make
the most of the opportunities offered during shopping. Credit cards provide unmatched
convenience, security, and reward benefits when used wisely. SBI Card reminds
cardholders to be vigilant and cautious while making payment on any platform.
Following
these simple guidelines can help customers enjoy shopping with peace of mind
and make the most of rewards & cashback benefits of their credit cards
while transacting with safety and security.