RBI Launches Reelathon 2026 on Cyber Fraud

The Reserve Bank of India launched “RBI Reelathon 2026” on 16 June 2026 at its office in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. The campaign targets college students and covers cyber-enabled financial frauds, timely reporting, smart borrowing practices, and safe digital banking habits.

RBI Reelathon 2026

RBI Reelathon 2026 is a multi-phase awareness campaign for students in about 150 colleges in Kerala. The first phase includes awareness programmes on smart borrowing practices and safe digital banking habits. The second phase requires students to create and submit short videos, or reels, on illegal loan applications, mule accounts, cyber financial frauds, and cyber hygiene.

Cyber Financial Fraud and Reporting

Cyber financial fraud includes online offences that use digital platforms, mobile applications, or electronic payment systems to cheat users. Common forms mentioned in the campaign include fraudulent investment schemes, digital arrest scams, illegal loan apps, fake job offers, and mule account networks. The campaign also refers to the “golden hour” in cybercrime reporting, which is the early period after a fraud when prompt reporting can help freeze transactions and support fund recovery.

Competition Format and Outreach

The campaign will end with a grand finale later in 2026. The top three winners will receive cash prizes of ₹75,000, ₹50,000, and ₹25,000. The best awareness content will be shared on the official social media platforms of the Kerala Police, the Reserve Bank of India, banks, and other partner institutions.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Reserve Bank of India was established in 1935 under the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934.
• Thiruvananthapuram is the capital of Kerala and hosts a Reserve Bank of India office.
• Mule accounts are bank accounts used to transfer or conceal proceeds of cybercrime.
• The term “golden hour” is used in cybercrime reporting for the earliest possible complaint after a fraud.

Digital Fraud Threats

Illegal loan applications, fake job offers, and digital arrest scams are among the cyber fraud patterns that target mobile users and students. Cyber hygiene includes safe password use, verification of links and applications, and caution in sharing banking credentials.