January 16, 2025 · 24 mins read
Santosh Kumar
The rapid pace in which technological advancement is booming has made its various inventions extremely pragmatic and accessible in terms of user experience. This easy and hassle-free practicality allows normal people to use the many boons of the web in their daily routine. Increasing digitization has thus heralded almost every aspect of our personal and professional living. One such revolutionary invention is the online transfer of money through a Unified Payment Interface. Even just a few years back, this novelty would have been hard to imagine for any software expert. But now due to extensive research and database development, this has become the new reality to transform how we had conventionally carried out financial transactions. Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has emerged as one of the most popular methods for transferring money in India. Unparalleled accessibility, hastily done transactions; are some of the many reasons behind the immense popularity of this interface.
However, increased convenience and a complete online processing has further raised the threat of cyber security crimes, phishing scams and data breaches. Even though the interface develops repeated updates to strengthen their firewall and ward off cyber-attacks, hackers and scammers who are always on the lookout for some loophole in which we can’t even know to answer the question which is how do I find scammer details from just a UPI transaction id? And it is not easy to find by the users which they can leverage for their maliciousness. Usually, fraudsters trick the user into yielding sensitive information like UPI PIN, transaction details, bank account details; to easily gain unauthorized access into the user's UPI ID. Sometimes, fraudsters even send you infected mails that may contain some hijacked hyperlinks. The user thinks that the mail is from an official account, thus opens it and clicks on the link. The moment the hyperlink is launched on the user's device, the fraudsters find a leeway through which they gain access and infiltrate confidential information. Other common tactics include fake customer service calls, QR code scams, and impersonation of trusted contacts or institutions.
These scams usually thrive on the user’s slight negligence when handling UPI transactions. Oftentimes, we need to disburse payment at the very spur of the moment. Users wish to hastily carry out the payments and, in the process, may lack complete awareness, thus leading to certain financial loss. Sometimes, we are not aware of conventional banking regulations, like never sharing UPI PINS or any kind of passwords on a call, as a result when asked for it, we readily provide the details considering it to be an important official call from credible sources. For example, a fraudster might pose as a representative of a bank or a UPI service provider, requesting OTPs or other confidential details under false pretences. Another common scam involves sending malicious QR codes, which, when scanned, withdraw money from the victim's account instead of crediting it.
If you ever fall victim to any UPI fraud, you must readily, at the first instant, report the UPI fraud as prompt action is critical. To report UPI fraud immediately is the most important step. One can file UPI fraud complaint to the bank or payment service provider. Additionally, file a complaint through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (cybercrime.gov.in) or dial the helpline number 1930. Prompt and swift action redressal calls ensure maximum chances of recovering lost funds and preventing further frauds.
In this article we will talk about how to report UPI frauds complaints at the earliest and some preventive measures through which we can check all sorts of UPI frauds. But before we delve further, let us first understand the various components of UPI, and which of those are the most vulnerable form of data.
It’s software that is used by frauds to steal user credentials, payment information and other sensitive data.
Phishing is another illegal means of fraud used to access user information such as UPI PINs, OTPs and passwords. The stealing includes UPI PINs, Passwords and OTP through illicit emails, messages and phone calls.
Money Mule is a complex type of fraud that involves stealing financial information and transferring money to an intermediary account. This intermediary account serves as the Money Mule, this account temporarily holds the collected funds from various unsuspecting victims. This process hacks the UPI system.
SIM cloning is a new UPI scam report that risks too much when banks make OTPs mandatory. If a fraudster clones a SIM Card, they can easily receive OTP on their device. They can even change your UPI PIN, and in a few minutes, you can become a victim of UPI fraud.
Vishing is another illegal means that comes in UPI fraud cases. It comes when fraudsters pretend to be bank representatives to gather the personal information of individuals. They did it to get PINs and passwords.
In these UPI fraud cases, fraud manipulates and alters QR codes. This alteration redirects payments to the payments into fraud account instead of the merchant’s account. When unsuspecting users scan these QR codes, they unknowingly send money to the fraudster’s account.
After COVID-19, Indians are spending so much money on the e-commerce marketplace to buy everything. But many e-commerce websites are not authentic and fraud sellers are using money to collect payment without any deliveries.
In this type of UPI fraud in India fraudsters create fake UPI app that looks real, it tricks people into believing and downloading these apps. These fake apps collect user-sensitive information which helps frauds to transfer money into their accounts. To avoid be a victim of fake UPI payment be alert.
In this kind of UPI fraud, fraudsters use tactics and trick users into revealing the UPI IDs or making transactions by pretending to offer rewards and money claims.
These are the most common UPI frauds that people should know to be careful of while transacting money through UPI ID. You should immediately report UPI fraud if you fall victim to these frauds.
Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has completely changed the way we handle digital transactions. However, like any other digital platform, UPI is not immune to issues. Users may encounter failed transactions, wrong transfers, or unauthorized debits. This article will guide you through filing a UPI report fraud to resolve such issues.
You can reach out to the BHIM helpline at the following toll-free number to seek assistance on UPI-related issues. 18001201740
You can access the helpline at anytime from anywhere in India.
You can also receive assistance through the email support system. Just write to the following email ID to report your grievance - upihelp@npci.org.in
You can file a UPI fraud complaint by following these steps:
Step 1: Go to the UPI Dispute Redressal Mechanism page.
Step 2: Scroll down to the “Complaint” section.
Step 3: Select the tab related to your complaint (Transaction, PIN, Account, Registration, SMS, Login, Others).
Step 4: Select the “Nature of the transaction” (person to person, person to merchant) and “Issue type”
Step 5: Enter your bank name, transaction ID, UPI ID, amount, transaction date, email ID, and other required information.
Step 6: Provide your registered mobile number, and attach a copy of your updated account statement.
Once the complaint has been registered you can check the status of your complaint by following these steps:
Step 1: Visit the NPCI User Complaint Status page.
Step 2: Select your “Product type,” “select your Bank,” and enter the CRN number.
Step 3: Enter the captcha and click on “Get Status.”
You will get the status of your complaint.
In this digital era, the introduction of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) system has made the transaction process more convenient. However, the risks of making wrong UPI transactions have also increased. If you ever caught yourself in this situation, follow the below steps to reverse the payment made to the wrong recipient.
This is the first and foremost step to follow once you realise your money is sent to the wrong UPI ID. The faster you will respond, the more will be the chances of getting back your payments. For better results, solve the issue within the first 24 hours
Contacting the recipient is another important step. If you have the contact details of the recipient, reach out immediately to them to explain the situation further. You may ask them politely to return the money. At the same time, provide them with all necessary transaction details including the total amount sent and the UPI transaction ID
If you fail to contact the recipient, take the next step of contacting your bank. Inform the bank about the transaction mistake you made and provide them with all the necessary details including the date of UPI, time, UPI transaction ID, mobile number, and others. You will get proper guidance from the bank and your transaction amount will reverse
Among several UPI apps, some of them have features for reporting incorrect transactions. Login into the UPI app and search for reporting the problem. Provide all necessary information and you will get guidance from the app regarding raising a dispute
If you find it difficult to resolve the issue with your bank or the recipient, file a complaint with the NPCI. NPCI looks after the operations of the UPI system and has also established several mechanisms for resolving disputes. If needed, you can also visit their official website and follow the steps for UPI payment frauds complaint in NPCI.
This is the final step to follow if all your attempts fail. Carry out a consultation with any legal experts for a proper understanding of the steps you should undertake to recover your funds from wrong UPI transaction
You can avoid incorrect money transfers by following some essential precautions. These will not only help you to stay away from fraud but will also keep your bank information safe and secured in this digital world.
Here are some tips to follow to prevent incorrect money transfer:
1: Never share sensitive financial information like PAN numbers
2: Use apps like Truecaller to verify unknown contacts
3: Be wary of unsolicited communication from unknown sources
1: Always read spam alerts on apps like PhonePe and Google Pay
2: Phonepe fraud transaction report can be filed in the app
Trust built-in security features of your UPI application
1: Be extremely careful when using the "request money" feature
2: Verify the identity of sellers before initiating any transaction
3: Double-check recipient details before confirming transfers
1: Never disclose your UPI PIN to anyone
2: Install robust security and anti-virus software
3: Regularly update your mobile banking apps
1: Scan emails carefully before opening attachments
2: Be sceptical of unsolicited email links
3: Use email filtering and security tools
4: Be Selective About App Downloads
5: Only download apps from official stores
6: Check app permissions before installation
7: Avoid downloading apps from unknown sources
It goes without saying that no one else needs to know your UPI pin. Depending on the app, you will be required to create a 4- or 6-digit pin. Make sure it is not something simple or predictable like your birthdate and do not share it with anyone under any circumstances.
Fraudsters often call or send emails asking for personal information citing various reasons but you should always bear in mind that there is absolutely no situation where sharing your UPI pin is necessary.
It could happen by accident while entering the recipient’s phone number that you mistype one number and hence the bank account you are transferring money to is not the one you intended to. But fraudsters also figure out ingenuous ways to replace the scanners or QR codes to make you transfer your money to somebody else. Either way, a simple glance at the receiver’s name that pops up when you add the number or scan the code and confirming it with the intended receiver can ensure that the money does not end up in the wrong account.
Several scammers, on the pretext of sharing money with you, ask you for your UPI id and pin. While your id is required if someone wants to transfer money to you, your UPI pin is absolutely not required. Furthermore, if you don’t want to share your id either, you can just share the phone number linked with the bank account or simply share the QR code linked with your UPI.
As with email passwords and phone lockscreen pins, it is a healthy practice to change your UPI pin at regular intervals. While you should pick a set of numbers that are easy to remember, ensure it is not something as basic as your birthdate. Also avoid saving your UPI pin on your phone because if your phone gets stolen, the miscreant would in that case have access to both your pin as well as your UPI app.
Another standard practice. If you have multiple bank accounts linked with your UPI or if you use multiple UPI apps, have different pins for all of them. It is a simple yet effective way to keep your money safe.
There is a multitude of apps on the play store that offer various services but only use verified apps for UPI payments. Additionally, avoid downloading any unnecessary or dangerous apps on your phone as they might have devious ways to access your UPI.
Check the ratings and reviews before downloading and always ensure that the app is verified on the app store.
While using your UPI app in crowded places, there might be someone watching who might figure out your UPI pin and then steal your phone. So always be wary while making payments in public places. Check your surroundings and make sure you’re being discreet while making UPI payments.
While this might not always be possible as a lot of payments and transactions happen in public, the least you can ensure is to avoid using public wifis for payments. Unknown wifis might be carrying viruses so it is better to only use verified wifis or preferably your own phone connection while making payments to ensure that they are secure.
The nature of our work might lead to situations where our phone screen needs to be shared. But in such situations, always ensure that you are not making any UPI transactions or payments. If you absolutely need to make a payment, stop screen sharing for a minute, make the payment and then resume.
With each passing day, there are new viruses and techniques that are developed to hack your account. Similarly, each update for your antivirus has counter techniques to fight these off. So, keeping your bank accounts and your antivirus apps updated can go a long way in keeping your money safe.
Generally, you receive an SMS as soon as there is a UPI transaction on your phone. Turn this feature on in case it already isn’t and check these messages regularly. If you notice any withdrawal from your account which wasn’t authorized by you, deactivate your UPI immediately then report UPI fraud and notify your bank.
Not just your UPI account, your phone can also benefit from a strong passcode. Using a biometric alternative like facial recognition or fingerprint lock can ensure that it becomes all the more difficult for someone to access your device.
Most of us make so many UPI transactions every day that it becomes almost impossible to keep track of all of them. But a regular glance at your account activity can tell you if there are any random transactions that were not authorized by you. And if you notice something like that, alert your bank immediately.
Following these 12 suggestions can keep a long way in keeping your money safe. So, adhere to them and be wary as there are several scammers out there.
A UPI ID is just like any other identification card a student may carry to enter school premises; it is basically a unique virtual payment address personal to the user. abc@bank is one such instance of a UPI Id. On the other hand, UPI PIN is a 4- or 6-digit code that needs to be entered to initiate financial transactions. These credentials eliminate usage of sensitive data.
Bank accounts have to be registered and linked to the active mobile contact. This is used for verification, sending messages, etc.
Instead of downloading different net banking apps, one can simply download popular interface apps like Google Pay, Ponape, Paytm, and BHIM which acts as a medium for transference of funds. UPI apps have software that integrates all banking services at one place.
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With further increasing technological advancement, just as we have witnessed a transformed dynamic of financial transactions, likewise there have been an even bigger number of cybercrimes that are recorded every day. Therefore, before getting to understand the various steps of how to report a UPI transaction, let us first familiarize ourselves with the various types of UPI frauds:
One of the most common types, fraudsters send emails bearing legitimate and credible sender details to a UPI user. These emails often contain infected hyperlinks or links directing users to counterfeit websites that closely resemble the official ones. Unsuspecting users who input their UPI credentials or OTPs on these fake platforms end up losing their money.
Impact: Loss of funds and personal data that can lead to further identity theft.
In this type of fraud, the scammers send a ‘payment request’ message via UPI. They may even send a normal message, saying something like, is awaiting credit into your bank account, please click on the following link to complete the payment. Users thinking the credit from a credible source, end up clicking the link. By approving such requests via UPI, claiming to credit money into the victim's account, many users end up getting money deducted rather than been credited.
Impact: Immediate loss of funds due to a lack of awareness about UPI features.
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Another common tactic to trick people is when fraudsters impersonate as customer support correspondents claiming to resolve technical issues or upgrade services. They lure victims in by using the premise of a customer support agent and during the conversation itself, they extract sensitive information like UPI PINs, OTPs, or even direct users to install malicious apps that provide remote access to their devices.
Impact: Unauthorized transactions and potential compromise of linked accounts.
Many people are unaware of the fact that QR codes function only as credit points. They are only used to deposit money and not withdraw it. Scammers usually make use of this unawareness and send out malicious QR codes. Once scanned, money is debited rather than getting credited. For example, sellers on online marketplaces may fall victim to buyers who send QR codes instead of actual payments.
Impact: Deceptive transactions leading to loss of money.
By making use of social engineering tactics to obtain duplicate SIM cards of victims' phone numbers, fraudsters gain access to the victim's phone number. Thereafter, they simply reset UPI credentials and drain the linked bank accounts.
Impact: Complete control of UPI accounts and significant financial losses.
Some fraudulent apps offer the users instant loans but require them to link their UPI accounts for disbursal. By misleading the victims regarding the intent of malicious loans, fraudsters initiate unauthorized deductions or blackmail users with stolen personal data.
Impact: Financial exploitation and privacy breaches.
In case you fall victim to any of the aforementioned UPI frauds, the foremost step is to immediately UPI scam report transaction. Time is the essence as the sooner you act, the higher the chances of recovering your funds. Here are the immediate steps to follow:
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Foremostly contact your bank or the UPI service provider (e.g., Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, etc.) and ask for blocking your UPI account temporarily. This prevents further unauthorized access.
From your own side, you can easily log into the UPI app and change your PIN immediately. Avoid using easily guessable numbers like birthdates or repeated digits.
Retrieve your UPI transaction history and determine all unauthorized accesses. This will help you to gather tangible information that you can produce when reporting your UPI fraud.
Notify your bank of the fraudulent transaction as soon as possible. Most banks have a 24/7 helpline dedicated to reporting fraud. They have a dedicated team and software to track the fraudsters at the earliest.
Use the in-app options of your UPI service provider to report the fraud. Most apps have a "Report an Issue" or "Help" section for such complaints.
Having followed all the immediate redressal steps to report fraud UPI transactions, you have to now report the UPI fraud. To mindfully ans wisely make the complaint one must know how to report UPI fraud. The same has been described in the following steps:
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1: Make a call to your bank on its customer care number or redressal contact and lodge your complaint. Explain the entire process to them. If asked to visit the bank in person, try doing so at the earliest. Also provide all necessary details, such as the transaction ID, date, amount, and suspected fraud method to further hasten tracking of the stolen funds.
2: Ask the bank to block your account temporarily and work towards reversing the fraudulent transaction.
3: Some banks require you to submit a written complaint. Ensure you keep a copy for your records.
Most UPI platforms offer an in-app complaint system:
1: Launch the UPI app (e.g., Google Pay, PhonePe, BHIM).
2: Find the "Help" or "Customer Support" section.
3: Click and select on the suspected fraudulent transaction and describe the issue in the field provided.
4: Submit your complaint and note the reference number for follow-ups.
Read More:: How to Reset UPI PIN
In India, the Ministry of Home Affairs has established the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal for UPI fraud complaints.
1: Visit <cybercrime.gov.in>.
2: Register or log in to the portal with the asked credentials.
3: Select the option to report financial fraud.
4: Fill in the required details, including transaction IDs, screenshots, and a description of the fraud.
File a First Information Report (FIR) at your nearest police station. Cybercrimes usually entail complex jurisdiction therefore lodging A FIR helps to further solidify the case and thus hasten the tracking of the scammer. Provide copies of all evidence, including bank statements and communication with the scammer (if available).
An ombudsman is an official appointed by the government that works for resolution and redressal of complaints against individuals, organizations or businesses. If your bank fails to resolve your complaint satisfactorily, you can simply appeal to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Ombudsman. You can lodge a complaint through the RBI’s CMS portal.
Read More:: How to Reset UPI PIN on PhonePe
Here are some ways in which one can check fraudulent transactions:
The UPI PIN is the most vital and sensitive component of the user's UPI account. Therefore, one must be extra vigilant regarding it and never share it with anyone, even if they claim to be from your bank or a trusted source. Banks will never ask for your UPI PIN over calls or messages.
Always verify and validate the payment requests before affirming your confirmation to them. Fraudsters often send fake requests that appear legitimate. Confirm the details, such as the sender’s name and amount, before initiating the process.
Download credible and trusted UPI applications such as from official app stores like Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Avoid using third-party apps or APK files, as they may contain malware.
A further layer of encryption can facilitate strengthening the UPI’s firewall. Adding an additional layer of security by enabling an app lock for your UPI application can help prevent unauthorized access.
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Avoid clicking on suspicious links sent via SMS, email, or messaging apps. Fraudsters use phishing tactics to steal sensitive information.
Make it a habit to regularly review and maintain bank statements. This helps to identify any unauthorized transaction at the earliest.
One must have a comprehensive understanding of how to report UPI fraud. In case one falls victim to such frauds, he must report fraud UPI transactions at the earliest.
Victims of UPI fraud are protected under various legal frameworks and guidelines in India, including the Information Technology Act, 2000, and guidelines issued by the Reserve Bank of India. If you report the fraud within three days, you may be eligible for a refund under the RBI’s zero-liability policy for unauthorized transactions.
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UPI fraud is a growing concern in the digital world, but being vigilant, informed and proactive can significantly reduce its impact. Knowing how to report UPI fraud promptly and following the correct procedures is critical to reclaim lost funds at the earliest. Also be mindful of the preventive measures, to prevent such attacks in the first instance. If a victim to such frauds, report the UPI fraud to the credible agencies for swift redressal.
1. How can I report UPI fraud?
Report UPI fraud to your bank immediately via their customer service or app.
2. What details do I need to provide when reporting UPI fraud?
Provide transaction details, the fraudster’s UPI ID, and any communication evidence.
3. Can I report UPI fraud to the police?
Yes, you can file an FIR at the local police station if the fraud is significant.
4. Is there a helpline for UPI fraud?
You can call the National Cyber Crime Reporting Helpline at 1930 for assistance with UPI fraud.
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