Keep these points in mind when making payments via UPI, or your bank account could be emptied.

How can you protect yourself from fraudsters when using UPI? You do not need to enter a PIN to receive money. Be cautious of QR codes and unknown apps. Learn what to do if you fall victim to fraud.

Nowadays, people use UPI for everything—from buying vegetables to paying electricity bills—to transfer money instantly. However, fraudsters are also exploiting this convenience. Some may call pretending to be bank employees, while others might provide a fake QR code under the pretext of sending you money. A moment of carelessness could cost you your hard-earned money. Therefore, it is essential to keep a few key points in mind when making UPI payments.

You do not need to enter a UPI PIN to receive money.

If someone tells you that you need to enter your UPI PIN to receive money into your account, be cautious. A UPI PIN is used to send money or authorize a payment—never to receive it. Do not enter your PIN at anyone’s request.

Verify details before using a QR code.

Fraudsters often send QR codes under the guise of giving you money or a reward. After scanning a QR code, carefully check the name and the amount displayed on your screen. Remember, simply scanning a QR code does not automatically result in you receiving money. If you are making a payment, verify all the details thoroughly before proceeding.

Do not download unknown apps.

If someone calls and asks you to download an app—such as 'AnyDesk'—or requests that you share your screen, do not fall for it. Such apps allow the other person to view the information on your screen and may enable them to misuse your phone.

Never share your OTP or PIN with anyone.

If someone calls claiming to be a bank employee or a customer care representative and asks for your OTP or UPI PIN, do not provide this information. Fraudsters often trap people by pretending to need sensitive banking information. Always keep your OTP, PIN, and passwords to yourself. Check the name and amount before sending money

To avoid sending money to the wrong account due to haste, always verify the recipient's name and the amount before making a payment. If an unknown person requests money, confirm their identity by calling them first.

Report fraud immediately

If money is siphoned from your account fraudulently, do not delay. Immediately inform your bank and the UPI app provider. In India, you can call 1930 to report online financial fraud. You can also file a complaint through the official government website, cybercrime.gov.in.

While sending money via UPI is easy, acting in haste can lead to costly mistakes. Think carefully before entering your PIN, verify the recipient's name and the amount, and never download any app based on the instructions of an unknown person.