Image Source: PSU Corner
Punjab National Bank (PNB), one of India's leading public sector banks, has successfully migrated its corporate website to the secure 'bank.in' domain as part of a nationwide initiative led by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and Institute for Development and Research in Banking Technology (IDRBT). This move not only enhances cybersecurity but also modernizes PNB’s digital presence, aligning it with evolving banking technology standards and customer expectations.
Key Highlights of PNB’s Domain Migration
PNB shifted from its legacy domain to https://pnb.bank.in, becoming one of the first public sector banks to adopt the RBI-mandated '.bank.in' domain as of August 2025.
The migration follows the RBI circular dated April 22, 2025, which mandated Indian banks to move to the more secure '.bank.in' namespace aimed at safeguarding against phishing, spoofing, and other cyber threats.
The process was conducted under the expert guidance of IDRBT, the exclusive registrar of '.bank.in' domains in India, ensuring a smooth and secure transition.
Customers accessing the old website are now seamlessly redirected to the new domain, maintaining uninterrupted access to digital banking services.
Importance of the '.bank.in' Domain
The '.bank.in' domain class is exclusively reserved for verified and registered banking institutions, delivering enhanced trust and authenticity to customers navigating online banking platforms.
It incorporates advanced security protocols including Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting & Conformance (DMARC), multi-factor authentication, and rigorous verification checks before granting the domain.
Customers globally can identify official banking websites easily, thereby reducing fraud and suspicions of fake websites often arising from similarity in domain names.
PNB’s Technological and Customer-Centric Initiatives
The domain migration coincides with PNB’s broader digital transformation agenda which includes AI-driven chatbots like "PIHU", WhatsApp banking, and significant enhancements to mobile apps like PNB ONE.
PNB has witnessed rapid growth in digital transactions, with over 95% of Q1 FY26 transactions conducted digitally—the highest reported in the bank’s history.
During the first quarter of FY26, PNB also onboarded over 26 lakh new CASA accounts, signifying increasing retail customer engagement via digital channels.
The bank is focusing heavily on technology-powered lending schemes such as digital Sanjeevani loans, Digi MSME, and e-Mudra Loans, further democratizing access to credit.
Security and Regulatory Compliance
The RBI’s directive aims to align India’s banking sector with international cybersecurity standards and best practices, mitigating risks amid rising digital banking adoption.
PNB’s adherence to this policy and migration to the '.bank.in' domain reflects its commitment to safeguarding customer data, maintaining regulatory compliance, and enhancing user confidence.
The bank also ensures 24/7 monitoring and real-time threat detection on its website infrastructure to prevent cyber-attacks and maintain service availability.
Customer Impact and Future Roadmap
Customers are encouraged to update bookmarks and familiarize themselves with the new domain URL to ensure secure online interactions.
PNB plans additional digital innovations such as the deployment of full-fledged AI platforms, revamp of internet banking interfaces, and introduction of unified solutions integrating over 100 digital journeys.
The bank’s digital momentum is expected to continue, driving greater financial inclusion and convenience for millions of users nationwide.
Conclusion
Punjab National Bank’s migration to the secure 'bank.in' domain is a landmark step that underscores India’s advancing digital banking landscape. By embracing enhanced cybersecurity measures and upgrading digital infrastructure, PNB is not only protecting its clientele but also setting an industry benchmark for innovation and trust in India’s public sector banking.
Sources: The Hindu Businessline, Punjab National Bank official releases
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