UPI Payment Scam: With the ease of UPI also comes the increasing danger of online fraud. With increased numbers of people moving towards digital mode for day-to-day payments, cybercrooks are also becoming cleverer. While UPI is making payments a breeze, it is important to know the precautions required to keep your finances safe from fraud. Here are five know-better safety guidelines for UPI users.
Never Give Your UPI PIN to a Stranger
If any caller pretends to be an employee of the bank or a customer support agent and demands your UPI PIN or OTP, it’s a fraud. No one from a bank or any authentic UPI support team will ever request such sensitive information. This is the most widely practiced scam by cheats to drain your account. Always keep in mind: your PIN is your secret, never share it via phone or message.
Don’t Install Screen Sharing Apps on Request
Such scammers usually get users to install apps such as AnyDesk or TeamViewer to fix issues. These apps enable them to remotely take control of your phone, which grants them access to your banking and UPI apps. They can then make easy unauthorized payments. The best practice is to decline any such request and not download remote access apps at all.
Don’t Approve Random UPI Payment Requests
Scammers can send you unsolicited “Pay Requests” to supposedly refund money or for a small payment. If you inadvertently accept these requests, money will be taken from your account instead. If you’ve got such a request from an unfamiliar source, decline it at once. Always double-check before accepting or approving any UPI transaction.
Be Careful When Scanning QR Codes
Not all QR codes are created to accept money some are intended to take it from you. Scammers typically send phony QR codes indicating you’ll be receiving money once scanned, but instead, you end up sending money to them. Only scan QR codes from known, verified entities. If something does not seem right, do not continue with the scan.
Download Apps Only from Official Sources
Using duplicated or fake UPI apps is also one of the means hackers can steal your money. These fake apps appear to be genuine, but they swipe your credentials as soon as you log in to them. Always download UPI apps from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store to remain secure. Never rely on SMS shared links or unrecognised websites.
Stay Smart, Stay Safe
With UPI now a part of our everyday life, alertness is not a choice, it’s a requirement. These small steps can prevent you from losing your money in huge amounts and make your digital payment process secure. Forward these tips to your friends and family, as awareness is the first step towards protection.