Unauthorized Bank Transaction
Money was withdrawn or transferred from your account without your authorization.
What this generally means
Banks are required to investigate unauthorized transactions promptly, and reporting quickly can limit your liability significantly.
Your journey
You Are Here
You're trying to understand what to do about an unauthorized bank transaction. That's a good first step.
Understand Issue
Read through what this situation generally means and what your options are.
Gather Documents
Collect the evidence and paperwork that will support your case.
Contact Resource
Reach out to the most relevant authority, helpline, or legal aid service.
Escalate If Needed
If the first contact doesn't resolve things, escalate to a higher forum or authority.
Follow Up
Track your complaint's status and keep records of every response you receive.
Common next steps
- 1Call your bank's fraud helpline immediately to block your card/account.
- 2File a written complaint with the bank within the required timeframe.
- 3Report the fraud on the Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (1930).
- 4Follow up with the Banking Ombudsman if the bank doesn't resolve it.
Useful documents
- Bank statement showing the transaction
- Any suspicious message/call linked to the fraud
- Complaint reference number from the bank
Relevant authorities
- Your Bank's Fraud Department
- Banking Ombudsman
- National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal
Frequently asked questions
How quickly should I report unauthorized transactions?+
As soon as you notice them — reporting within a limited window (often within 3 working days) can significantly reduce your liability.
What if my bank denies responsibility?+
You can escalate the unresolved complaint to the Banking Ombudsman for an independent review.
Verified resources
RBI Complaint Management System (Banking Ombudsman)
Integrated Ombudsman Scheme portal for unresolved complaints against banks regarding fraud, charges, and service deficiency — file only after your bank has had 30 days to respond. Toll-free: 14448.
Cyber Crime Helpline (1930)
24x7 toll-free helpline for immediate reporting of financial cyber fraud, to request a freeze on fraudulent transactions before funds are withdrawn.
RBI Sachet Portal
RBI's single-window portal to verify if a financial scheme or lender is registered with a regulator, and to report unauthorised deposit-taking or investment schemes.