Fake UPI Apps for Discounts: Are you using these UPI apps hoping for a discount? You could get scammed.

Fake UPI Apps for Discounts: Whether paying at a tea stall, splitting a bill with friends, or shopping online, UPI allows money to be transferred in seconds.

Making payments via UPI has become an integral part of people's daily lives today. Whether paying at a tea stall, splitting a bill with friends, or shopping online, UPI allows money to be transferred in seconds. According to data from the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), 1,496 crore transactions took place via UPI in August, with approximately ₹20.60 lakh crore transferred. However, as UPI usage grows, new methods of online fraud are also emerging. Fraudsters are now creating fake UPI apps that look remarkably authentic, giving people a false sense of security regarding payments. In such a scenario, taking certain precautions is crucial.

Fake UPI apps designed for fraud can look just like the real thing. Fraudsters may use apps that mimic popular UPI platforms like Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm. After a "payment" is made using these apps, the screen displays a success message and plays an audio notification. Small shopkeepers, traders, and laborers can be targeted through such fake payments. Links to these counterfeit apps have also been found circulating on Telegram.

After scanning a shop's or individual's QR code, fraudsters can display a fake payment screen. The phone shows a "payment successful" message and plays the corresponding sound, leading the recipient to believe the money has been received; however, the funds never actually reach the bank account. Therefore, do not consider a payment screenshot or audio notification as definitive proof.

After receiving a payment, verify the amount yourself by checking your UPI app's balance history or bank statement. If the transaction does not appear, do not rush to hand over goods or provide services based on the assumption that the payment has gone through. This approach can help prevent financial losses associated with fraudulent payments.

You should never share your UPI PIN with anyone. Remember that the UPI PIN is used for sending money, not for receiving it; avoid clicking on unknown links or entering your PIN under the pretext of receiving funds. Carefully verify the recipient's name and UPI ID before making a payment.

Use only official platforms like the Google Play Store or App Store when downloading UPI apps. Do not download apps based on suspicious links or the lure of excessive cashback. Avoid using public or unsecured Wi-Fi networks for transactions. It is also advisable to enable screen locks or biometric security on your phone and UPI app.

Regularly check your UPI transaction history. If you notice any unknown or suspicious payments, inform your bank immediately. In the event of falling victim to cyber fraud, you can call 1930 or file a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in. While using UPI is convenient, it is crucial to personally verify payments and observe basic security precautions.