Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has made digital transactions easy, fast and secure. Just a few taps on your mobile screen, and you can transfer money, pay bills, or shop online. But, with the increase in online UPI payments, the number of frauds and scams has also increased. Unfortunately, many people become victims of UPI scams as they are unaware of the scams. In this article, we will discuss the most common UPI scams and how you can protect yourself while using BHIM UPI and other UPI payment apps.
Common UPI Scams You Should Be Aware Of:
1. Fake Customer Care Frauds
These scammers pretend to be from customer care of a bank or UPI app and call or message users about their personal details like UPI PIN, OTP etc. They pretend to need “verifications” on the user’s account to get your private details.Once they get your details they can access your money.
How to be safe?
Never share your UPI PIN, OTP, or bank details with anyone. Your bank or any UPI app will never ask for these details through any kind of calls or messages.
2. Fake Payment Requests
Scammers send fake UPI requests to make payments and ask you to approve them so that money is “transferred” into your account. Instead, it is transferred from your account into the scammer’s account.
Always read the message properly before accepting any UPI request. If you are receiving money, you don’t need to enter your UPI PIN.
3. False UPI Apps
Many fraudsters create false UPI payment apps that appear like real apps. When people enter their banking details, hackers steal their data and misuse them.
How to be safe?
Download UPI apps only from official sources like Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Check the developer details before installing.
4. QR Code Scams
Scammers send false QR codes asking users to scan them to receive money. But when scanned, the money is instead deducted from your account.
How to stay safe?
Never scan a QR code sent by an unknown person. Always use trusted sources for transactions.
5. Loan and Cashback Scams
Scammers offer false loan schemes or cashback offers and ask for small payments in the form of a “processing fee.” After receiving the money, they disappear.
How to be Safe?
Always check the offers directly on BHIM UPI and bank websites. Never make payments to an unknown source.
How to Stay Safe While Using UPI Payments?
Only use Official Apps for UPI – Download your online UPI apps only through trusted platforms like playstore or apple app store. Never click third-party links.
Turn on App Locks- Enable fingerprint or PIN locks for extra security in the UPI app.
Check Payment Requests Carefully- Read messages before accepting any UPI payment request
Don’t give out your UPI PIN – No bank or UPI app will ask for it. Keep it safe and secure with yourself.
Monitor your Transactions- Check your bank statements regularly for any fishy transactions.
Report Fraud Immediately – In case of a fraud suspicion, immediately call the bank or contact the BHIM UPI helpdesk.
Conclusion:
Payments through UPI are mostly safe. Scammers take advantage of unawareness, so staying informed is very important. Follow the above tips and be aware of any ongoing scams around you.