UPI Fraud: The #1 Digital Scam in India
1 in 5 UPI users have been targeted. Here's how to stay safe.
QR Code = PAYMENT (Always)
Scanning a QR code ALWAYS sends money. There is no such thing as a "receive money QR code". Anyone asking you to scan a QR to receive payment is trying to steal from you.
5 Essential UPI Safety Rules
Never share your UPI PIN
Your PIN is for payments only. No bank or app will ever ask for it.
Decline unknown collect requests
Collect requests DEBIT money. Refunds are sent directly — no PIN needed.
Verify before paying
Check the receiver's name carefully. Scammers use names similar to businesses.
Don't scan unknown QR codes
QR codes only send money. There's no 'receive money' QR code.
Set daily transaction limits
In your UPI app settings, set a daily limit to minimize potential losses.
How Collect Request Fraud Works
Understanding the mechanism helps you spot it instantly.
Scammer lists a product for sale or contacts you about a 'refund'
They send a UPI collect request with a message like 'Refund ₹5,000'
The collect request looks like you're receiving money — but it's a DEBIT
You enter your UPI PIN thinking you'll receive money
Money is DEDUCTED from your account and sent to the scammer
Already been scammed via UPI?