UPI Fraud Alert: With its ease of use and speed, the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has completely changed digital transactions in India. UPI has grown in popularity, but scammers are now targeting it as well. It is essential that all users comprehend the various kinds of UPI fraud and learn how to protect themselves from them.
Common Types of UPI Frauds
Phishing Scams
Fraudsters lure consumers into entering their UPI credentials on phony websites by sending bogus links through emails or SMS. After the data is obtained, it is utilized to withdraw funds from the user’s account.
Vishing (Voice Phishing)
Callers are impersonating bank employees or customer care agents when they ask for private information such as passwords, UPI PINs, or OTPs. The user’s account is then accessed using this information.
SIM Cloning
The victim’s SIM card is copied by fraudsters, who then utilize it to gain access to their bank account connected to UPI. This technique typically entails obtaining the victim’s cellphone number and reading bank-sent OTPs.
Fake UPI IDs
In order to deceive customers into sending money to the incorrect account, scammers construct UPI IDs that resemble authentic ones. This is frequently observed in online markets where fraudulent vendors offer false UPI IDs.
Screen Mirroring Apps
In order to observe everything the victim performs on their phone, including inputting OTPs and UPI PINs, fraudsters trick victims into installing screen mirroring apps. They now have total access to all of the victim’s UPI transactions as a result.
How to Stay Safe
Verify UPI IDs: Make sure the UPI ID is correct every time before completing a transaction. Make sure it exactly matches the ID of the intended recipient to prevent funds from being sent to phony accounts.
Avoid Sharing Sensitive Information: Never divulge your OTPs, UPI PINs, or any other banking information in emails, texts, or phone calls. Such information is never requested by respectable banks or organizations.
Use Trusted Apps: Use UPI and banking apps that are official and verified only. To protect yourself from malware and phony apps, download these apps only from the approved app stores.
Be Cautious with Links: Never click on unidentified or dubious links that you get over social media, text message, or email. These could direct you to phishing websites that are meant to steal your personal data.
Through knowledge of these typical UPI scams and adherence to these security guidelines, you may safeguard your money and take advantage of the ease of online transactions without being a victim of scammers.