Petrol Pumps Across India to Halt UPI & Digital Payments from May 10 Over Cyber Fraud Risks

Life for the common man, which had become easier with UPI and digital payments, is set to face a new challenge. Starting May 10, petrol pump owners in multiple cities have announced they will stop accepting UPI, card payments, and other digital transactions due to rising cyber fraud incidents.

Why Are Petrol Pumps Rejecting Digital Payments?

According to reports, petrol pump associations in Maharashtra and other states have decided to suspend digital payments after a surge in fraudulent transactions. Cybercriminals are hacking into customers’ bank accounts or cards, making payments, and later disputing the transactions—leading to financial losses for pump owners.

  • Vidarbha Petroleum Dealers Association stated that many petrol pump owners have faced account freezes after fraudulent transactions were reversed.

  • Federation of All Maharashtra Petroleum Dealers Association reported that repeated cyber fraud has caused significant financial strain, forcing this drastic step.

  • Nashik Petrol Pump Dealers Association also confirmed the move, citing increasing complaints from pump owners about unauthorized transaction reversals.

What Led to This Decision?

Earlier, fraudulent amounts were small, so petrol pump owners ignored them. However, with rising cybercrime cases, losses have become substantial, prompting this industry-wide protest.

Amit Gupta, President of the Federation of All Maharashtra Petroleum Dealers Association, said:
“We have informed the government about this issue. Digital payments will only resume once we get assurance of stricter fraud prevention measures.”

What’s Next?

Currently, this decision is being implemented in Maharashtra, but if cyber fraud continues unchecked, it could spread nationwide.

Key Takeaways:
✔ Petrol pumps in Maharashtra to stop UPI, card payments from May 10.
✔ Decision triggered by rising cyber fraud & financial losses.
✔ Owners demand better security measures before resuming digital payments.

For now, customers must carry cash for fuel purchases in affected areas. Will the government intervene to resolve this crisis? Stay tuned for updates.