Sanima Bank Warns Public Against Spreading SMC App Online App Scams
Online App Scams Sanima
9th December 2025, Kathmandu
Sanima Bank has recently issued a severe public warning regarding a rapidly escalating digital fraud targeting Nepalese citizens.
Online App Scams Sanima
The warning explicitly highlights the dangerous rise of Online App Scams operating under the name of the “SMC App.” These fraudulent schemes lure people in with the promise of quick money and tempting referral bonuses.
They are spreading rampantly across social media and various online platforms. The Bank’s central message is clear: the public must exercise extreme caution and should not deposit funds into unknown accounts without verifying the facts.
Understanding the SMC App Fraud
The ‘SMC App’ scam utilizes high-pressure tactics and promises of unrealistic returns to manipulate victims. Fraudsters actively promote the ‘SMC App’ through various social media channels, making it appear legitimate. They market it as a legitimate investment opportunity or a platform for earning substantial income with minimal effort.
A core component of the scam is the referral system. Users are incentivized to bring friends and family into the scheme, promising additional bonuses for each successful sign-up.
This active recruitment strategy quickly expands the scam’s reach, turning victims into unwitting promoters. The promise of an easy “side hustle” or a way to earn “passive income” is a powerful lure that many people struggle to resist.
How the Scam Works: The Mechanics of Deception
The process typically begins when a user is convinced to download the app or register on a specific website. To “activate” the earning potential or unlock higher tiers of income, the user is required to deposit an initial sum of money. Fraudsters actively manage the psychological aspect of the scam. They may allow users to see small, fabricated returns initially to build trust.
Once trust is established, the scammers actively pressure the victim to deposit larger sums. They may cite “exclusive offers,” “limited-time investment windows,” or a chance to upgrade to a “VIP plan.”
The money is funneled into various, often untraceable, bank accounts provided by the scammers. Eventually, when the victim tries to withdraw the accumulated funds, they are met with technical errors, non-responsive support, or the complete disappearance of the app and the perpetrators.
The Banking Sector Takes Active Measures
The proactive warning from Sanima Bank is part of a broader, active response by the Nepalese financial sector to combat digital crimes. Banks are keenly aware that these Online App Scams erode public trust in legitimate digital financial services.
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By issuing a public alert, Sanima Bank effectively and actively educates its customers, urging them to prioritize security. The bank is actively advising customers that they must not share sensitive information or transact money based solely on unverified online promises.
They underscore the importance of performing due diligence before engaging with any digital investment scheme, especially those that promise returns that sound too good to be true. Financial institutions are continuously working to enhance their security protocols to detect and prevent unauthorized transactions linked to these fraudulent activities.
Tips to Actively Protect Yourself from Digital Fraud
As digital engagement grows, everyone must actively guard against online threats. Users must adopt a vigilant and proactive mindset to protect their finances.
Verify the Source: Never rely solely on social media promotions. Always actively verify the legitimacy of any investment app or scheme through official government sources, the Nepal Rastra Bank, or reputable news portals like ICTFrame.
Avoid Quick Money Schemes: Be actively skeptical of platforms promising unrealistic, rapid, or guaranteed high returns with minimal or no risk. Legitimate investments inherently carry risk and require time.
Do Not Share Sensitive Data: Never disclose your OTP (One-Time Password), PIN, or full account details to anyone who contacts you online or over the phone, regardless of their supposed identity. Banks and legitimate institutions will not actively request this information.
Check Official Channels: If an app claims to be associated with a bank or a recognized institution, actively check that institution’s official website or customer care line (e.g., Sanima Bank’s Customer Care: 01-5970133) to confirm its authenticity.
Actively Report: If you encounter suspicious activity related to Online App Scams or other fraud, actively report it to your bank and the nearest police cybercrime unit immediately.
The continuous fight against these digital threats requires the active cooperation of financial institutions and a vigilant public. Customers must actively heed the warnings issued by banks like Sanima Bank and remain cautious in the digital space.
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