IRDAI warns against fake Bima Bharosa website, cautions public over banking, KYC and OTP information

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has issued a public notice cautioning the general public, policyholders and other stakeholders against a website, “igmsirdai.online”, which appears to be presenting itself as an IRDAI-related insurance grievance and complaint registration platform.

“The said website is not an official IRDAI website. The matter is being examined by IRDAI and appropriate action is being initiated/taken in accordance with applicable law.”

IRDAI cautions against submitting policy, banking, KYC and OTP information

The regulator separately stated: “To not make any payment or share banking/financial credentials, passwords, OTPs or other confidential information in response to any communication received through such websites.”

IRDAI directs users to official Bima Bharosa portal

IRDAI also advised the public to exercise caution against websites, emails, messages, telephone calls or other communications that misuse the name, logo, identity or terminology of IRDAI or otherwise represent themselves as being associated with IRDAI without proper verification.

Those who have shared information advised to take precautions

IRDAI said members of the public who have already submitted personal, policy or financial information through the suspected website should take appropriate precautionary measures and, where necessary, report the matter to the appropriate cybercrime or law-enforcement authorities.

The regulator further advised the public to verify the authenticity of any IRDAI-related website before sharing information or registering a grievance.

IRDAI said it “will not be responsible for any loss, disclosure of information or other consequences arising from interaction with unauthorised/fraudulent websites impersonating IRDAI.”

The regulator urged members of the public to remain vigilant and help prevent the misuse of IRDAI's identity and grievance redressal mechanism.

The public notice was issued “in the interest of the general public and for the protection of the interests of policyholders.”