Bharti Airtel has issued an advisory to customers amid a surge in digital scams, urging users not to link their primary bank accounts to Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and payment apps. The company has introduced a safe second account through Airtel Payments Bank to help minimise the risk of financial loss from online fraud.
The Airtel’s vice chairman (VC) and managing director (MD) highlighted the increasing prevalence of scams, including fake parcel delivery calls, fraudulent links, and so-called digital arrest threats. In a letter to customers, he said the company has strengthened its fraud-prevention systems using artificial intelligence, including instant alerts on spam calls and blocking malicious links.
He cautioned that linking everyday digital payments to a primary bank account heightens the risk of savings being compromised if a user falls prey to a scam. He said the safe second account is designed to keep payment transactions separate from a user’s main savings account, requiring only a small balance for use.
Further, opening the account can be done through the Airtel Thanks app by completing Aadhaar and PAN-based verification, setting an mPIN (mobile Personal Identification Number), and adding funds.
Airtel noted the measure aims to reduce customer exposure to unauthorised transactions while allowing continued reliance on digital payments. Meanwhile, the VC and MD urged users to take active steps to secure their finances and invited feedback on how the company can further enhance its services.
