Fake UPI Refund / QR Collection Scam

A "fake UPI refund" scam tells you to scan a QR code or approve a "collect request" to receive a refund. In UPI, scanning a QR or approving a collect request SENDS money from your account — it never receives it. No legitimate refund ever requires you to scan or approve anything.

How the scam works

1. You are told a refund of ₹X is pending and shown a QR or a collect request.
2. Scanning the QR / approving the request authorises a payment FROM your account.
3. You enter your UPI PIN believing you are "receiving", and the money leaves instead.

Red flags

• "Scan this QR to receive money"
• A UPI "collect request" to claim a refund
• Urgency ("refund will be cancelled")
• Being asked for your UPI PIN to receive money

Example message

Congratulations! You have received a refund of ₹4,999. To credit it, scan the QR or approve the collect request in your UPI app.

What to do

• Receiving money on UPI never needs your PIN or a QR scan.
• Decline unknown collect requests.
• Verify refunds in the original app/order, not via messages.
• Report at cybercrime.gov.in or 1930.

FAQ

This is general safety information, not legal or financial advice. If you have lost money or shared sensitive details, contact your bank and your national fraud agency immediately.