Most Common UPI Scams and How to Avoid Them

UPI has simplified the process of making daily payments. You can make online payments, transfer money, and shop in a few seconds. Nonetheless, the fraudsters are also getting intelligent. The abundance of users loses money due to rushing to do it. Thus, the knowledge of the most common UPI Scams and how to avoid them can help to avoid financial stress.

1. Collect Request Fraud

This fraud is often initiated via a phone call or a message. The scammer can tell you that you are getting a refund, a cashback, a salary, or prize money. After some time, you receive a collect request on your UPI application. In case you confirm it and enter your PIN, money is charged off your account. The payment notification is displayed to many users, which confuses them. They press the PIN without checking it in anticipation or haste.

How you can stay safe:

• Never forget to read what is written on the payment screen.
• Bear in mind that when you insert your UPI PIN, you are transferring money.
• You do not have to accept any request to get money.
• In case it is not known, refuse the request and check with the sender directly.

2. Fake Prize or Lottery Scam

You can be contacted by WhatsApp and offered 25,000 cashback or a prize in a draw of fortune. The message tends to appear formal. But in order to receive the reward, they are requesting that you pay a little processing fee. A lot of people pay since the requested sum is not high. The fraudster, unfortunately, blocks you once you transfer the money.

How you can stay safe:

• You can question yourself whether you were in a contest at all.
• Prints should not click on suspicious links.
• Do not spend money to win something.
• Block out and report such figures at once.

3. Fake Customer Care Scam

When facing payment issues, users often search for customer care numbers online. Scammers take advantage of this. They post fake helpline numbers that appear genuine. Once you call, they speak politely and ask for your UPI ID, OTP, or PIN. They may even guide you to “fix” the issue, but in reality, they are transferring money from your account.

How you can stay safe:

• Always use the official bank app or website for support numbers.
• Never share your UPI PIN or OTP with anyone.
• Do not allow unknown persons to guide your transactions.
• If in doubt, visit your bank branch directly.

4. QR Code Scam

In this scam, someone sends you a QR code and says, “Scan this to receive payment.” Many small business owners and sellers fall for this trick. However, scanning a QR code means you are making a payment, not receiving one. As a result, your money gets transferred instantly.

How you can stay safe:

• Use QR codes only when you want to pay someone.
• Double-check the payment screen before entering your PIN.
• Do not scan QR codes sent through random messages.

5. Screen Sharing App Fraud

Scammers sometimes claim they need to help you with a refund or technical issue. They ask you to install screen-sharing apps like AnyDesk or TeamViewer. Once installed, they can see everything on your phone. They may ask you to open your banking app. Without you realizing it, they complete a transaction.

How you can stay safe:

• Never install apps suggested by unknown callers.
• Do not share your screen during banking transactions.
• Uninstall unknown apps immediately.
• Keep your phone software updated.

6. KYC Update or Account Block Scam

You may receive a message saying your bank account will be blocked due to incomplete KYC. The message creates panic and urgency. It includes a link to “update details.” Once you click the link, you may be asked to enter your banking information. This data is then misused.

How you can stay safe:

• Do not panic when receiving such messages.
• Check your KYC status directly in your official banking app.
• Avoid clicking on unknown links.
• Report suspicious SMS messages.

Quick reporting improves the chances of recovering your money. Therefore, act fast if you notice something unusual. UPI is safe when used wisely. However, awareness is your best protection. By learning about the Most Common UPI Scams and how to Avoid Them, you become more confident and secure while making digital payments. Stay alert, verify every request, and always think before entering your PIN.