Discovering an unauthorized AEPS withdrawal from your bank account can be alarming. The Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AEPS) is designed for secure transactions, but cybercriminals sometimes exploit vulnerabilities to steal money. If you’ve been a victim, acting quickly is crucial. This guide explains the steps to take, how to report cybercrime, and the bank complaint process to recover your funds.
Understanding AEPS and Unauthorized Withdrawals
AEPS (Aadhaar Enabled Payment System) allows cashless transactions using Aadhaar authentication. While convenient, fraudsters may misuse biometric data or trick users into sharing OTPs, leading to unauthorized AEPS withdrawals.
Common Causes of Unauthorized AEPS Transactions
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Biometric Data Theft – Criminals may replicate fingerprints or use leaked Aadhaar details.
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Phishing Scams – Fake bank calls/SMS trick victims into revealing sensitive info.
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Point-of-Sale (POS) Fraud – Corrupt merchants misuse AEPS terminals.
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Malware Attacks – Spyware captures banking credentials.
If you notice an unauthorized AEPS withdrawal, follow these steps immediately.
Step 1: Block Further Transactions
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Freeze Your Account – Contact your bank’s customer care or visit a branch to temporarily block transactions.
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Change Banking Passwords – Update net banking, UPI, and mobile banking credentials.
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Disable AEPS Services – If not in use, request the bank to deactivate AEPS-linked transactions.
Step 2: File a Complaint with Your Bank
Banks are obligated to investigate unauthorized AEPS withdrawals. Here’s how to file a complaint:
A. Immediate Steps
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Call the bank’s 24/7 helpline (find the number on your debit card or passbook).
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Submit a written complaint at the nearest branch (keep a copy for records).
B. Required Documents
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Copy of the disputed transaction slip (if available).
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Bank statement showing the unauthorized AEPS withdrawal.
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Aadhaar card copy (to verify identity).
C. Bank’s Investigation Process
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The bank must resolve complaints within 90 days (RBI guidelines).
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If fraud is confirmed, they must refund the amount within 10 working days.
Step 3: Report to Cybercrime Authorities
Since unauthorized AEPS withdrawals involve cyber fraud, reporting to law enforcement strengthens your case.
A. File an Online Cybercrime Complaint
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Visit https://cybercrime.gov.in/.
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Select “Report a Cyber Crime” → “Financial Fraud”.
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Upload bank statements, complaint copies, and FIR (if filed).
B. Lodge an FIR at the Local Police Station
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Provide transaction details, bank complaint reference number, and any suspect information.
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Police may collaborate with the Cyber Crime Cell for investigation.
Step 4: Follow Up for Refund and Resolution
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Track Complaint Status – Use the reference number provided by the bank/cybercrime portal.
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Escalate to RBI Ombudsman – If the bank doesn’t resolve the issue within 30 days, file a complaint at https://cms.rbi.org.in.
Preventing Future Unauthorized AEPS Withdrawals
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Monitor Account Activity – Regularly check bank SMS alerts and statements.
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Avoid Sharing Aadhaar Biometrics – Only use AEPS at trusted banks/agents.
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Enable Transaction Alerts – Set up instant notifications for all transactions.
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Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) – Add extra security to banking apps.
Real-Life Case Study: How a Victim Recovered Stolen Money
Example: Mr. Sharma noticed an unauthorized AEPS withdrawal of ₹15,000. He immediately:
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Blocked his account via customer care.
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Filed a bank complaint with transaction proof.
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Reported the fraud on the cybercrime portal.
Within 45 days, the bank refunded his money after confirming fraud.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I get my money back after an unauthorized AEPS withdrawal?
Yes, if reported promptly, banks usually refund the amount after investigation.
Q2. How long does the bank take to resolve such complaints?
Typically 30-90 days, depending on case complexity.
Q3. Should I file a police complaint for a small unauthorized transaction?
Yes, even small frauds should be reported to prevent larger scams.
Q4. Can AEPS be hacked?
While secure, biometric theft or phishing can lead to fraud. Always use trusted agents.
Final Thoughts
An unauthorized AEPS withdrawal can be distressing, but swift action increases recovery chances. Follow the steps above—block transactions, complain to the bank, report cybercrime, and follow up diligently. Stay vigilant to protect your finances from digital fraud.
Disclaimer
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