Scam alert: This fraud app steals Bank card details

A new online fraud is targeting banking users in Pakistan through fake advertisements on Facebook. The scam promotes a false Habib Bank Limited (HBL) mobile app, claiming it is the “2025 updated version.” In reality, this fake app has been created to steal sensitive banking card information.

The fake Facebook ad has now been removed, but the harmful signup link is still active and dangerous.

How the Scam Works

The phishing site copies HBL’s official branding and even displays pictures of HBL debit and credit cards to look authentic. However, the fake URL is different from HBL’s official site:

• ✅ Original HBL website: https://www.hbl.com/

• ❌ Fake website: (unsafe link used in fraud)

Once users reach the fake site, they are asked to provide personal banking details such as:

• Card number

• CVV (security code)

• Expiry date

• Cardholder name

• Mobile number

After submitting this data, victims are falsely told that the bank will call them within 1–2 hours for OTP verification.

What Customers Should Do

To stay safe, users are advised to:

• Never download apps from social media links or unknown websites.

• Use only official sources:

  • HBL’s website: https://www.hbl.com/

  • HBL’s verified Google Play Store app: HBL Mobile App

• Report any suspicious websites or ads to HBL and authorities such as PTA.

• Avoid sharing banking details on sites that do not match HBL’s official domain.

HBL Confirms No “2025 Version”

HBL has not launched any separate “2025 version” of its mobile application. Customers should remain alert and always confirm banking updates from HBL’s official channels.