In response to the escalating instances of online fraud, Gopal Vittal, the Vice-Chairman and Managing Director of Airtel, has advised users to opt for Airtel Payments Bank for their online transactions rather than utilizing their primary bank accounts. This recommendation aims to enhance security for users making digital payments amidst increasing fraudulent activities.
In a recent communication aimed at Airtel users, Vittal highlighted the ongoing threat posed by cybercriminals who utilize various deceptive tactics to circumvent security measures. These methods include sending fake notifications about parcel deliveries, linking fraudulent reward schemes, and issuing threats regarding potential digital arrest. According to a report by Moneycontrol, Vittal emphasized that the effectiveness of these scams is largely attributed to individuals relying on their primary bank accounts for all online transactions. This practice could place their financial savings at significant risk, as even a minor error in judgment could jeopardize their entire savings, he warned.
Vittal has advised customers to utilize Airtel Payments Bank for their online transactions to mitigate the potential losses resulting from fraud. He suggested that users maintain only small sums in this account for day-to-day payments. This strategy ensures that, in the unfortunate event of a scam, individuals will not have their entire savings jeopardized, thereby enhancing their financial security against fraudulent activities.
Vittal explained the bank’s operational model, highlighting its simplicity and focus on payments. He emphasized that customers are encouraged to deposit only a minimal amount of money, noting that, unlike traditional banks, this institution does not offer loans, thus eliminating the need for customers to maintain a large balance.
Even a small balance in Airtel Payments Bank accrues interest, providing a safeguard against errors in digital payments, ensuring users do not lose their savings, as stated by the speaker. Government statistics indicate a significant increase in cybersecurity incidents in India, escalating from 1.3 million in 2022 to 2.27 million by 2024. Concurrently, the financial impact of cyber frauds has intensified, with losses reported to be ₹3.6 million on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (NCRP) as of February 28, 2025, as highlighted in a press release from the Press Information Bureau (PIB).
In September 2025, Airtel reported significant success in its anti-fraud initiatives, noting a remarkable 68.7% reduction in the value of financial losses attributed to cybercrime, alongside a 14.3% decrease in overall cybercrime incidents occurring on its network. Vittal remarked that over the past year, the company’s AI-driven network solutions have been instrumental in identifying more than 48.3 billion spam calls and successfully blocking approximately 320,000 fraudulent links, showcasing Airtel’s commitment to enhancing security for its users and mitigating cyber threats effectively.
Airtel Payments Bank reported a profit of ₹11.8 crore for Q2 FY26, showing a slight increase from the previous year. The bank’s revenue reached ₹804 crore, marking a 19.4% year-on-year growth, attributed to strong growth momentum. Additionally, its annualised Gross Merchandise Value reached ₹4,56,000 crore, bolstered by increased usage of its Safe Second Account and merchant services.
