If you receive an unsolicited credit card or it is activated without proper consent, promptly submit a written complaint to the issuer. Receiving the card alone does not mean you must activate it or accept any charges.
Understand the Law and Procedure
Consent requirements applicable to card issuance, activation, upgrades and limit changes are important. Before providing an OTP, read its purpose rather than assuming it is for routine delivery verification. If you did not request the card, do not use it and ask the issuer for the basis of the application and consent. Account closure, charge reversal and credit bureau correction may be separate actions. Physically cutting up the card does not automatically close the bank account. The rules provide for closure and customer protection in specified situations, but the exact remedy will depend on the card's status and the issuer's role.
In Detail: What Factors Could Affect the Outcome?
If an unknown account appears on your bank statement or credit report, also consider the possibility of identity misuse. Contact the issuer through its official complaint number; do not arrange cancellation through a delivery person or an unknown caller. If your credit record is affected by an incorrect outstanding amount, separately record the date of the dispute and the correction request. Check the details of the charges before making any admission.
What Should You Do?
- Do not use the card; lodge a complaint about the unsolicited issuance through an official issuer channel.
- Request written confirmation of the consent record, charge reversal and account closure.
- If there is incorrect credit reporting or identity misuse, raise a separate dispute and, if necessary, make a cyber complaint.
Which Documents Should You Keep?
Keep the card delivery record, messages, any application denial, issuer replies and your credit report.
Hypothetical Example
A customer was sent a card in connection with an old banking relationship. The customer did not activate it, but received a fee message. In the complaint, it may be useful to address the unsolicited issuance, activation status and fee reversal as three separate questions.
Are All Charges Automatically Removed If You Do Not Use the Card?
Do not assume so. Obtain written confirmation of the charges and closure, and also check the effect on your credit report.
Sources and Related Rules
- RBI — Commercial Banks: Responsible Business Conduct Directions, 2025, current consolidated source
- RBI — Commercial Banks: Responsible Business Conduct Directions, 2025, current consolidated source
Editorial review: 26 October 2026. This is general legal information. The outcome may vary depending on the facts of the case, applicable state law and subsequent amendments.